MDBA Field Trip -- Pine Canyon
2024-04-20 08:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Diablo Foothills Regional Park Trailhead Parking, 1700 Castle Rock Rd, Walnut Creek, 94598
This field trip is especially good for beginning birders! Pine Canyon, which includes the Castle Rock EBRPD recreational area, and the Diablo Foothills Regional Park just beyond, provides rich habitat and resources for spring migrants passing through, as well as for many returning and nesting summer residents.
We should expect to find nesting pairs of Bullock’s Orioles and House Wrens. Warbling Vireos, along with their cousins, the Cassin’s Vireo, nest within the canyon. Rufous-crowned Sparrows are to be found, and if we’re lucky, Lazuli Bunting. We’ll look (and listen) for Black-headed Grosbeaks and Western Tanagers. Western Wood-Pewees and Pacific-slope Flycatchers pass through. We might get lucky with an Olive-sided Flycatcher. And the warblers: breeding plumage Yellow-rumped, Black-throated Gray, Wilson’s, Yellow, Nashville, MacGillivray’s, Hermit, Orange-crowned, and Townsend’s.
Bring water and snacks. This should be a wonderful springtime field trip.
Trail Rating: Category 2–Moderate with creek crossings
Elevation change: 150-200 feet
Leader: Tracy Farrington, 925-788-6223
Meet: Diablo Foothills Regional Park trailhead parking lot.
Directions: From Ygnacio Valley Road, drive south on either Walnut Avenue or Oak Grove Road to the traffic circle. Continue south on Castle Rock Road, pass Northgate High School, then drive to the end of the road.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration).
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-pine-canyon-tickets-860625282387
(Townsend’s Warbler photo by Jerry Britten)

MDBA Field Trip -- Del Puerto Canyon
2024-04-22 07:30 - 15:00 | Del Puerto Canyon Rd & Diablo Grande Pkwy, Del Puerto Canyon Rd, Patterson, CA, 95363, United States
As we drive through Del Puerto Canyon, on the east side of the Diablo Range, we’ll be looking for Canyon Wren, Costa’s Hummingbird, Greater Roadrunner, and other goodies. It can get very warm! Bring lunch and plenty of liquids as this trip takes us further from conveniences that most of our outings.
Carpool leaves from Sycamore Valley Road Park and Ride at 730 AM.
OR: meet on Del Puerto Canyon Road, just west of I-5 at 9 AM. Take I-580 east to I-5 south to the Patterson exit (56 miles from Sycamore Valley Road). Turn right at the exit and onto Del Puerto Canyon Road.
Before the main caravan gets to Del Puerto Canyon Road we will pull off I-5 at the Larry Combs Rest Area, near Westley. There are no facilities between this location and our lunch stop.
Trail Rating: 1 – This is mostly a car trip, with several easy walks.
Leader: Steve Buffi (925) 200-4555
Due to the extremely limited parking at several stops along our route this trip is limited to 12 participants.
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/del-puerto-canyon-tickets-860629424777
(Western Kingbird photo by Isaac Aronow)

MDBA Field Trip -- Putah Creek at Pedrick Rd.
2024-04-24 07:30 - 14:00 | Putah Creek Parking Lot, Putah Creek Parking Lot, Davis, CA, 95616
This delightful, fairly short stretch of Putah Creek (~3/4 miles), can be very productive during Spring migration. It’s a fairly easy walk through lovely riparian right down in the creek bed. And the occasional sandy stretch will often host several species of birds bathing in the shallows.
Expect to find a nice selection of warblers: Yellow, Black-throated Gray, Orange-crowned, Wilson’s, MacGillivray’s, Hermit, Townsend’s, and perhaps a Nashville. And, of course, Pacific Slope Flycatcher, Western Wood Pewee, Western Tanager, and keep an eye overhead for a Swainson’s Hawk. Vagrants pop up from time to time (I found a Tennessee Warbler a couple years ago), so don’t discount the prospect of a nice surprise.
Bring water and snacks. There are no bathroom facilities.
Trail Rating: Category 1, an easy walk.
Leader: Tracy Farrington, 925-788-6223
Meet: Putah Creek parking lot (description to follow)
Directions: Take 680 east, cross the Benicia bridge, remain to the right, and continue on 680 for ~14 miles to Cordelia where you will merge on to 80 east. Take 80 east about 27 miles to Pedrick Road. This will come up about a mile and a half past 113 south towards Dixon. Turn north (left) at Pedrick, drive about two miles, and just as you cross over Putah Creek, turn left on to a short dirt road and into the Putah Creek parking lot, where we’ll meet.
This trip is limited to 15 Participants. All must acknowledge the MDBA liability waiver, available at registration.
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/putah-creek-at-pedrick-road-tickets-860622955427
(Snowy Egret photo by Beth Branthavar)

Monthly Program: May 2024
2024-05-02 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Imprint of a Mourning Dove on a sliding glass door, Photo by Glenn Phillips
Building a Bird-Friendly City
Glenn Phillips

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, May 2, in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: Building a Bird-Friendly City
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
Every year, nearly 1 Billion birds are killed by collisions with glass. The Bay Area has led the nation in enacting bird-friendly ordinances that will help stop this conservation crisis. Learn how birds see, and what you can do to stop bird collisions in your community and at your home.
Glenn Phillips, Golden Gate Bird Alliance’s Executive Director, holds master’s degrees in Urban Sustainability and Science Education from the City University of New York and is a co-author of the Bird Friendly Building Guide published by the American Bird Conservancy. He has worked on Bird-safe Buildings since 2007.

MDBA Field Trip -- Lagoon Valley & Pena Adobe -- NEW TRIP!
2024-05-07 09:00 - 13:30 | Peña Adobe Regional Park, 4699 Peña Adobe Rd., Vacaville, CA, 95687
We will first bird at Pena Adobe Park, located off I-80 just west of Vacaville. Pena Adobe is a historic park with well established trees, including an orange tree planted as early as the1860s. Birds we’ve seen here include Brown Creeper, Hermit Thrush and Black-headed Grosbeak.
After exploring Pena Adobe we’ll drive to Lagoon Valley Park. There is a $5 parking fee here, and note the kiosk only takes either exact cash—no change given!—or debit/credit card. Birds seen at Lagoon Valley have included Western Bluebird, Cliff Swallow, Bullock’s Oriole and Western Kingbird. If the lake level is low, there is a good chance for Wilson’s Snipe and Greater Yellow-legs. Bufflehead and American Wigeon are often among the waterbirds on the lake.
Trail Rating: 1 – Easy. Mostly level paths.
Leader: Mona Lange, 510-414-2959
Meet: Pena Adobe Park, off I-80 between Fairfeld and Vacaville.
Directions: Take 680 to 80 East towards Sacramento. Take Exit 51B, Pena Adobe Road.
DO NOT take the Lagoon Valley Road exit.
After the stop sign, proceed straight veering to the LEFT onto Pena Adobe Road. Meet at the restroom building. Address is 4699 Pena Adobe Road, Vacaville, CA.
This field trip is limited to 12 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration).
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-lagoon-valley-tickets-861622846127
(Photo of Brown Creeper by Mona Lange)

MDBA Field Trip -- West Briones Regional Park
2024-05-09 08:00 - 13:00 | Bear Creek Staging Area Briones, Bear Creek Staging Area, 16 Bear Creek Rd, Lafayette, CA, 94549, United States
A visit to the west entrance of Briones Regional Park in the spring offers views of spring wildflowers and spring birds. Lazuli Buntings are often present, along with flycatchers, vireos, and many other species. Bring water and snacks. It might be warm by mid-day.
Rating: Category 2 – moderate hiking over dirt and gravel trails with mild slopes.
Elevation change: 200 feet
Leaders: Matt Tarlach & Cheryl Abel – MDBAFieldtrips@gmail.com
Meet: Bear Creek Staging Area parking lot
Directions: From SR 24 in Orinda, drive north on Camino Pablo about 2.25 miles, turn right on Bear Creek Road, continue for 4.5 miles to park entrance. Drive to farthest parking lot on the right.
This field trip is limited to 20 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration).
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-west-briones-regional-park-tickets-861185367617
(Lazuli Bunting photo by Beth Branthaver)

MDBA Field Trip -- East Contra Costa County
2024-05-20 07:00 - 11:00 | Marsh Creek Regional Trail Trailhead, X8R3+9H, Oakley, CA, 94561, United States
Note the early starting time: we start this trip early as the location can become very hot by mid-day. We will walk part of the Marsh Creek Trail, and then visit Piper Slough north of Bethel Island. Other locations are possible. Target birds include: Blue Grosbeak, Hooded Oriole, Black-chinned Hummingbird, Swainson’s Hawk, Yellow-billed Magpie and Yellow-breasted Chat.
Bring lunch, snacks and water.
Rating: Category 2–moderate hiking on mostly level trails.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Randy Huey, 925-518-8439
Meet: Marsh Creek Trailhead on Cypress Road, Oakley
Directions: Go north on I-680, exit Highway 4 toward Stockton/Pittsburg, take right Exit 30 toward CA-160/Sacramento/Rio Vista (just past Hillcrest Avenue exit; do NOT continue straight on Highway 4). Take exit 1-A East 18th/Main Street, turn right at the bottom of the exit onto Main Street and drive through Oakley for about 4 miles, turn left onto Cypress Road. Make a U-turn at Picasso Drive, the stoplight after the railroad tracks.
This field trip is limited to 20 participants. Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/886960732427

MDBA Field Trip -- Outer Point Reyes
2024-06-01 08:30 - 15:00 | Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center, 1 Drake Beach Rd, Inverness, CA, 94937, United States
Point Reyes is one of the premiere birding locations in Northern California, a great spot to find rarities during migration—like the Prairie Warbler pictured above (image by Beth Branthaver). MDBA tries to visit at least twice a year. On our late-spring trip we hope to see northbound migrants as well as resident birds in their best plumage. The exact itinerary will depend on weather, but we’ll probably visit the lighthouse overlook, and the “fish docks” area. After lunch we may walk down the “Avenue of Cypresses” to the old RCA building.
Bring water and lunch as this area is remote.
Rating: Category 2 — some walking through grass under trees, and on paved roads with fairly significant grade and on paved roads. Elevation change: 100 ft
Leader: Matt Tarlach, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com
Meet: Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center, Drake’s Beach
1 Drakes Beach Road
Inverness, CA 94937
GPS: 38.027828257127936, -122.96201741318059
Directions: Depending on your starting point, take the best route to San Rafael and go North on US 101. From 101, take Lucas Valley Road to Nicasio. At the reservoir turn left. Follow signs to Point Reyes Station, and when you get to town turn left onto US-1. After passing through town (the Bovine Bakery is a tasty stop for breakfast pastries), turn right from US-1 onto Sir Francis Drake Blvd and follow it for 15 miles to Drakes Beach Road.
Due to limited parking at several stops on the Outer Point, this field trip is limited to 12 participants. Sharing a car is helpful! There’s room to leave extra cars at the Drakes Beach meeting point. Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/886961775547

Monthly Program: June 2024
2024-06-06 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Conservation Ranching in California
Pelayo Alvarez

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, June 6, in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Birding Info: Winners of the MDBA photo contest
7:15 PM Announcements
7:30 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:45 PM Main Program: Conservation Ranching
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
7:00 PM Birding info: Winners of the MDBA photo contest
We reviewed your submissions, now it is time to reveal the winners of the fourth annual Mt Diablo Bird Alliance Photo Contest! See who won in six categories: Bird Beauty, Birds and Humans, Birds Dining, Birds in Action, Worst Bird Photo EVER, and Youth: For photographers aged 8-17. (Any type of bird photo can be submitted in this category. Membership is not required.)
Winners and runners-up will be announced at the meeting, so come enjoy the best photos from our local birding community!
7:45 PM Main Program: Conservation Ranching in California
Pelayo Alvarez
Audubon Conservation Ranching Program: Partnering with ranchers to protect bird habitats.
Grassland bird species are experiencing steep declines across California and the United States. In 2019, Audubon launched its Conservation Ranching program (ACR) in California. This program is designed to stem the loss of bird habitat and improve the ecological function of rangeland ecosystems by partnering with ranchers to implement regenerative management practices via a ranch certification program. This presentation will highlight the ACR program components, which include the development of ranch-specific Habitat Management Plans and a third-party certified set of conservation practices to protect and enhance bird habitats while providing additional environmental benefits such as increased soil health, carbon sequestration, resilience to drought and increased biodiversity. Participating producers receive technical assistance and support promoting their certified products. Audubon is building local partnerships with chapters, Resource Conservation Districts and others to support certified ranchers. This presentation will highlight program practices and standards, chapter participation, marketing opportunities and the potential for scaling up and developing new partnerships.
Pelayo Alvarez works as the Director of the Conservation Ranching Program in California. Before joining Audubon, Pelayo worked for the Carbon Cycle Institute where he helped establish carbon farming programs across California. Pelayo has experience working with the ranching community, government agencies, academia and other stakeholders on rangeland conservation initiatives including the development of programs to incentivize good stewardship practices on rangelands. Pelayo also worked for Defenders of Wildlife as the Conservation Program Director for the California Rangeland Conservation Coalition where he coordinated research and outreach activities. Pelayo also teaches Rangeland Ecology and Management at American River College in Sacramento. His previous work experience includes positions at UC Davis, The World Bank and The Nature Conservancy. He has a bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine from Universidad de Leon (Spain), a MS degree in Animal Science from Oklahoma State University and a PhD in Ecology from UC Davis.

Monthly Program: September 2024
2024-09-05 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Birds of Canada and North American Wood Warblers
Norman Kikuchi, MD

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, September 5, in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: Birds of Canada and North American Wood Warblers
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
7:30 PM Main Program: Birds of Canada and North American Wood Warblers
Norman Kikuchi, MD
Norman Kikuchi will present photos taken from a few of his favorite locations in Canada. In a small town named Elliston, there is a lesser known breeding colony of Atlantic Puffins, that are sometimes known to nibble on visitors’ shoelaces!
We will also learn about New World Wood Warblers (Parulidae) taken from migration hotspots and breeding locations in the US and Canada. Warbler addiction among birders is a common condition from which happily there seems to be no cure.
Norman’s childhood interest in birds began while stalking Ring-necked Pheasants in the Mt Diablo foothills, however witnessing the impalement of a Western Fence lizard by a Loggerhead Shrike on a Joshua tree spine was his real bird epiphany. He was transfixed by the moment!
Norman graduated from UC Davis in Zoology with a minor in herpetology. He received my MD family practice specialty at UC Irvine. In 1997 he acquired the super telephoto Canon lenses and switched to avian photography. His current ultimate goal is photographing all the breeding birds in the US and Canada.

Blackburnian Warbler; Photo by Norman Kikuchi

MDAS Field Trip -- Outer Point Reyes
2024-09-07 08:30 - 14:30 | Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center, 1 Drake Beach Rd, Inverness, CA, 94937, United States
Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/outer-point-reyes-registration-989723909857
Point Reyes is one of the premiere birding locations in Northern California, a great spot to find rarities during migration—like the Prairie Warbler pictured above (image by Beth Branthaver). Our exact itinerary will depend on weather, but we’ll probably visit the lighthouse overlook and the “fish docks” area. After lunch we may walk down the “Avenue of Cypresses” to the old RCA building. Bring water and lunch as this area is remote.
Hike rating: Category 2 — about 2 miles total walking, mostly on paved roads though with some incline.
Elevation change: 100 ft
Leader: Matt Tarlach, 925-482-6129, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com
Meet: Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center, Drake’s Beach
1 Drakes Beach Road
Inverness, CA 94937
GPS: 38.027828257127936, -122.96201741318059
Directions: Depending on your starting point, take the best route to highway 101 north of San Rafael. From 101, take Lucas Valley Road to Nicasio. At the reservoir turn left. Follow signs to Point Reyes Station, and when you get to town turn left onto US-1. After passing through town (the Bovine Bakery is a traditional stop for breakfast pastries), turn right from US-1 onto Sir Francis Drake Blvd and follow it for 15 miles to Drakes Beach Road. Turn left and continue down Drakes beach Road to the parking lot at the end. Leader will be parked near the visitor center.
Due to limited parking at our stops on the Outer Point, this field trip is limited to 12 participants. Sharing a car is very helpful! There’s room to leave extra cars at the Drakes Beach meeting point.
(Photo of Prairie Warbler by Beth Branthaver)

MDAS Field Trip -- Tilden Nature Area & Jewel Lake
2024-09-09 07:30 - 11:00 | Jewel Lake, Tilden Nature Area, California, 600 Canon Dr, Berkeley, CA 94708, Berkeley, CA, 94708, United States
Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jewel-lake-tilden-nature-area-berkeley-tickets-989729386237
A walk along Wildcat Creek and around Jewel Lake in Tilden Park. We’ll get started early, as it can get hot by mid-day at this time of year. Target birds include Brown Creeper, Red-Breasted and Pygmy Nuthatch, and with luck Pacific Wren. Migrating birds are a possibility.
This trip is suitable for beginners! Bring binoculars if you have them, or if you need to borrow a pair contact the leader beforehand so he knows to bring them.
Hike Rating: 2, Moderate. Up to 2 miles walking on mostly flat, paved and gravel trails.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Matt Tarlach, 925-482-6129, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com
Meet: Parking lot at the end of Central Park Drive in Tilden Regional Park.
Directions: Take Highway 24 to exit at Fish Ranch Road.
Turn right and go up the hill 0.7mi. Turn Right on Grizzly Peak Blvd. Follow Grizzly Peak for 4.1mi.
Turn Right on Muir Way, then Left on Park Hills Road. Shortly after this turn, the road forks. Bear right at the fork to stay on Park Hills Road. Watch for signs to “Little Farm” which is near the meeting point. Park Hills Road ends at Wildcat Canyon Road, with an odd intersection to the right. Turn Right on Wildcat Canyon, then IMMEDIATELY Left onto Central Park Drive. Continue about 1 mile on Central Park to the parking lot at the end, which is the meeting point
This hike is limited to 15 participants.
(Photo of Hutton’s Vireo by Isaac Aronow)

MDAS Field Trip -- Mt. Wanda
2024-09-14 08:30 - 11:30 | Mount Wanda Trailhead, XVQ9+QW, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-mt-wanda-john-muir-nhs-martinez-tickets-989719737377
This hike is especially good for beginning birders!
We’ll walk through oak woodlands and oak savannah habitats, climbing uphill on a rugged fire road with one steep section. Then we’ll walk a single track trail back to the fire road, about 2.5 miles total. We should have excellent views of Acorn Woodpeckers, likely also Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks, Towhees, and Oak Titmouse.
Mt. Wanda is part of the John Muir National Historic Site, and this walk is hosted jointly by Mt. Diablo Bird Alliance and the National Park Service.
MDBA has binoculars to loan for use on our trips! If you need binos just tell the trip leaders beforehand, so they know to bring an extra pair.
Hike Rating: 3, Vigorous (by birding standards). About 2.5 miles walking on fire roads and single track trails, with 475′ elevation gain.
Leader: Cheryl Abel, 925-957-6229
Meet: Parking lot at the Mt. Wanda Trailhead, intersection of Alhambra Ave and Franklin Canyon Rd in Martinez.
Directions: From Hwy 4 westbound take the Alhambra Ave. exit in Martinez. Turn left back under Hwy 4. Franklin Canyon Rd. is the next right, parking lot immediately on the left side of Franklin Canyon Rd. Bring water and binoculars.
This hike is limited to 15 participants.

Introducing the Birds of Heather Farm
2024-09-16 07:30 - 10:30 | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
The Natural Area at Heather Farm is an underrated birding site. It is possible to see five species of heron one day, and on the next five species of sparrow. Common Gallinule and Sora are frequently reported, along with wintering ducks and migrating passerines. All told, over 200 species have been recorded at Heather Farm over the years. The Natural Area is also in need of conservation advocacy, as it is under constant pressure from park users who are more interested in sports and recreation than wildlife or habitat.
“Introducing the Birds of Heather Farm” is a series of bird walks intended to promote appreciation of birds and of the Natural Area, and to help new birders improve their skills. In addition to this announcement in the Quail it will be promoted via flyers in the park and at local businesses. If you are new to birding, or would enjoy an introduction to Heather Farm, please sign up via Eventbrite! If you know anyone who’s getting their start in birding invite them to sign up too:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/introducing-the-birds-of-heather-farm-tickets-991048712377
If you’re a somewhat more experienced birder—not necessarily an “expert”—your assistance in this program is invited! MDBA members who can turn out to help with this “Introduction” bird walk, spotting birds and sharing experience with new birders, do not need to sign up via Eventbrite. The low number of signup spots is intended to limit the number of beginners so that each may receive some personal attention.
If you can join us to help spot birds, or would like copies of the flyer to post somewhere in the area—your office? your favorite coffee shop? the bulletin board at a library or city facility?—please email Matt: mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com

MDAS Field Trip — Birding by Bike at Clifton Court Forebay
2024-09-21 07:30 - 13:30 | Clifton Court Forebay, Clifton Court Rd., Discovery Bay, CA, 94505
Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-by-bike-at-clifton-court-forebay-tickets-989733488507
Have a bicycle, e-bike or scooter, and like to bird? Join MDBA at Clifton Court Reservoir in eastern Contra Costa County, where we will do an out-and-back biking/birding trip of approximately 10 miles on a flat, paved levee road to see a myriad of bird species. Those who are equipped for it can also navigate a series of well-maintained gravel levee roads to avoid taking the same route back.
Clifton Court Forebay is an enormous reservoir that collects Delta water and sends it south through the Delta-Mendota canal. The reservoir itself can hold staggering numbers of waterfowl and gulls, and the surrounding habitat of slough, marshland, grassland, scrub and riparian woods is very productive. It is not uncommon to record 60-80 species of birds in a single outing, and the place is a magnet for rarities, especially in fall. There are also excellent chances to see river otters, coyotes, resident sea lions and even a beaver if we’re lucky.
Trip is approximately 5 hours, although participants can turn back at any time. There is plenty of free parking at the Forebay, but no restroom facilities or potable water. Must be able to transport your bike/scooter to the site. It can be windy out there, but is pleasant most of the time. We will monitor the forecast, gale-force winds will cancel.
Meet: at the parking lot at the end of Clifton Court Road (left turn from highway J4 approximately 2 miles southeast of Byron) at 7:30 AM. Bring layers, sunscreen, water and a snack or lunch for when we get back to the cars. Participant limit 15.
Meeting Point GPS: 37.8378308046695, -121.59322207166935
Leader: Jerry Britten
(Photo by Jerry Britten)

MDAS Field Trip -- Vaux's Swifts at McNear Brickyard, San Rafael
2024-09-25 17:30 - 19:30 | McNear Brickyard, 1 McNear Brickyard Rd., San Rafael, CA, 94901
Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vauxs-swifts-tickets-989735384177
Leader: Maureen Lahiff, MLahiff@aol.com, 510.484.6529
Vaux’s Swifts migrate south along the Pacific Americas Flyway each fall, and one of their few known stopping points in Northern California is McNear Brick and Block in San Rafael. At sunset on many September and October evenings as many as 20,000 swifts mass and fly into the decommissioned brickyard chimneys to spend the night. It’s an unforgettable sight!
Although this trip is timed for the height of the swifts’ migration, based on past years’ counts the number of swifts can vary greatly from night to night, and can range from a few hundred to thousands. Like everything else in birding, there are no guarantees!
Spotting scopes are helpful, to better view the action around the chimney mouths.
Photographers will be challenged as sunset nears (7:01 pm on the night of our field trip.)
Given the time of day, it is OK to bring snacks as well as water. However, this is a birding event, not a picnic, so please don’t bring an elaborate spread. Those who find a portable stool or lawn chair helpful are welcome to bring one.There are no restroom facilities on site.
Hike Rating: 1. This is essentially stationary observing, so there is very little walking, but a lot of standing.
(There is a shopping center on N San Pedro Road en route.)
Carpooling is strongly encouraged since there is very little parking. To respect both the swifts and the McNear property owners, this trip is limited to 20 people.
Maureen will send driving directions and parking instructions by email about a week before the trip.

Monthly Program: October 2024
2024-10-03 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Wildlife Photography
Vishal Subramanyan

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, October 3, in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: Wildlife Photography
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
7:30 PM Main Program: Wildlife Photography

Vishal Subramanyan

Vishal Subramanyan will share some of his amazing photos and the techniques he uses to capture remarkable images. Vishal is a 21 year old wildlife photographer and undergraduate at the University of California, Berkeley. Using camera traps, telephoto lenses, and other photography techniques, he aims to capture unique imagery that raises awareness about conservation and inspires community action. With an academic background in ecology, he integrates science into his storytelling efforts, using his knowledge of the animals and environments to create compelling stories.
Vishal has been photographing since he was 14 years old, when he went on a trip to Alaska with his dad. He had always wanted to see the bears fishing salmon, and immediately got hooked onto photography when he picked up a camera there. Since then, he has been working on conservation stories across California. His work with bobcats in the Bay Area has earned him both local coverage and international recognition.
An important part of his work is directly engaging with his community. Vishal regularly gives speaking engagements in the Bay Area and beyond, where he’s able to connect with a wide audience of nature lovers. With a community of over 100,000 followers on social media, he’s been able to share stories of California’s wildlife with global audiences.
Currently, he is in his final year of university, and is collaborating with the National Park Service, UC Berkeley, National Geographic, and local non-profits on various science and storytelling projects across the state.

Mountain Lion, photo by Vishal Subramanyan

Introducing the Birds of Heather Farm
2024-10-14 08:00 - 10:30 | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek is an underrated birding spot, home to dozens of resident species. We’ll hope to see some migrating birds as well! We’ll meet at the overlook of the Natural Lake, west of North San Carlos Drive, about 100 yards beyond the community center.
Meeting point GPS: 37.921260813409184, -122.04358260674651
At 8:00AM an experienced birder or two will be on hand to demonstrate how to properly use binoculars, and to discuss birding guidebooks and apps. We’ll be scanning the lake to see which ducks and other birds might be arriving to spend the winter.
When we’re good and ready, we’ll set off on a walk around the lake and adjacent Nature Area—an easy stroll of about half a mile on level, accessible trails. Along the way we’ll hope to see and hear sparrow, finch, woodpecker and warbler, along with nuthatch and dove. Wrens, thrushes, herons, and raptors are often found here too… though in birding, as in life, nothing is guaranteed! Our guides will explain what features on the birds to look for, to begin to tell one from the other.
We should be done around 10:30. Birders of all experience levels are welcome! Bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll also have a few pairs to borrow.
Sign up here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/introducing-the-birds-of-heather-farm-tickets-1009474674927
(Image of White-breasted Nuthatch by Matt Tarlach)

MDAS Field Trip -- Alameda Hotspots
2024-10-26 08:30 - 13:00 | CA
Alameda has several good spots for shorebirds. We’ll probably visit Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary, Ballena Bay, and Crab Cove, with the exact itinerary to be determined. Meeting point will be in Alameda; registered attendees will be notified of the exact starting point and other details by email, a day or two before the trip.
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/alameda-hotspots-tickets-1022691958177
Hike Rating: Easy
Leader: Mona Lange.
This trip is limited to 15 participants. Participants acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver, available during registration.
(Photo of Long-billed Curlew by Maren Smith)

MDBA Field Trip -- Mt. View Sanitary and McNabney Marsh
2024-11-04 08:30 - 11:30 | Mountain View Sanitary District, 3800 Arthur Rd, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
In winter McNabney Marsh, aka Waterbird Regional Preserve, hosts many species of ducks, shorebirds and waterbirds. Marsh passerines and raptors might also be present.
We’ll meet at the observation deck off of Arthur Road, and scan the marsh with our scopes. After that we’ll move the cars a short distance and take a walk around the man-made marshes operated by Mt. View Sanitary District. Bring your scope if you have one!
This trip is very suitable for beginning birders! Binoculars are available for borrowing, just let the leader know in advance to bring an extra pair.
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy. Under 1 mile on flat terrain. Unpaved paths in MVSD, potentially muddy.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Matthew Tarlach, 925-482-6129
Meet: Meet at the observation deck off of Arthur Road at 8:30AM.
GPS: 38.01949443777331, -122.09610747171664
Directions: From I-680 northbound, exit at Pacheco Blvd, turn right onto Arthur Road and go under the freeway. Arthur Road will bend left. Where Arthur Road ends the paved road turns sharp left onto Mt. View Sanitary’s private road. Drive about .3 mile to the gravel parking lot just before the one-lane tunnel. The observation deck is to the right (east) of the road.
Limited to 15 participants. Participants acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration).
REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mcnabney-marsh-and-mvsd-tickets-1051583794437
(Image of Long-billed Dowitchers by Alan Bade)

Monthly Program: November 2024
2024-11-07 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Pied Barbet, Namibia. Photo by J. Britten
Birds of Namibia
Jerry Britten

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, November 7, in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: Birds of Namibia
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
7:30 PM Main Program: Namibia Birds

Jerry Britten

Earlier this year, MDBA President Jerry Britten, his wife and another couple set off on a self-driving adventure to explore the vast desert country of Namibia in southern Africa. Their 3-week journey of over 1300 miles, a good portion over gravel roads driving from lodge-to-lodge, took them through magnificent desert and coastal dunes, barren deserts, rocky scrub, and flat acacia thornscrub teeming with game. While at the lodges they did game drives, a little bit of walking, sitting in waterhole hides, and relaxing. Of course, a lot of birding and photography was involved. Jerry will present highlights of the many birds and other animals he was able to photograph on this trip, and offer his perspective on the sights and sounds of this part of Africa.
When not birding or engaged with MDBA goings-on, Jerry is a mostly-retired independent contractor/consultant in the fields of optical coatings and diffractive optic design and manufacture. He retired from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in 2016 after a 30+ year career as a chemical engineer.

Introducing the Birds of Heather Farm
2024-11-11 08:00 - 10:00 | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
This trip is especially good for beginners!
Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek is an underrated birding spot, home to dozens of resident species. We’ll hope to see some winter visitors as well! We’ll meet at the overlook of the Natural Lake, west of North San Carlos Drive, about 100 yards beyond the community center.
Meeting point GPS: 37.921260813409184, -122.04358260674651
At 8:00AM an experienced birder or two will be on hand to demonstrate how to properly use binoculars, and to discuss birding guidebooks and apps. We’ll be scanning the lake to see which ducks and other birds might have arrived to spend the winter.
We should be done around 10:00. Birders of all experience levels are welcome! Bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll also have a few pairs to borrow.
Trip will go on in damp weather, but significant rain or high wind cancels.
REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meeker-slough-tickets-1052245593897
(Image of White-breasted Nuthatch by Matt Tarlach)

MDBA Field Trip -- Lodi Lake & Woodbridge Preserve
2024-11-14 08:30 - 13:30 | Lodi Lake, 1101 W. Turner Rd, Lodi, CA, 95242, United States
We’ll bird first at Lodi Lake and its riparian area alongside the Mokelumne River. Plan to see waterfowl and many bird species including Woodpeckers, White-breasted Nuthatch, Cedar Waxwing, Herons, Warblers and Wood Duck. (We’ve had Varied Thrush in the past but cannot guarantee!)
From Lodi Lake we’ll move on to Woodbridge Ecological Reserve, where we’ll see waterfowl and other birds, including hopefully some early-arriving Sandhill Cranes. (The state requires a CDFW Lands Pass at Woodbridge Reserve, with a fee of $5.40 per day. An annual Lands Pass is $30.50)
Dress in layers. Bring water, snacks and lunch if so choose.
Hike Rating: 2 – Easy to moderate loop of 1.5 – 2 miles on level ground with some paved areas. A few very short off-trail lookouts with easy to moderate slope access. There are a few benches to rest on as well.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Mona Lange 510-414-2959
Meet: Lodi Lake parking lot (1101 W. Turner Rd) (bathroom at parking lot). Bring cash to pay the parking fee of $5/car or $3/car for seniors. Exact change.
Directions: Hwy 4 East toward Antioch/Rio Vista. Go over Antioch bridge (toll). At stop light make RIGHT onto Hwy 12 toward Lodi. Stay on 12 East past interstate 5. About 2 miles past I-5 make a LEFT on DeVries Rd (the light after the RR tracks.) Carefully and safely watch for Yellow-billed Magpies in the area. At the second stop sign make a RIGHT onto W. Turner Rd. When in town, stay in the left lane. After crossing the RR tracks start looking for the Lake entrance on your LEFT. (On the other side of the Do Not Enter Sign.)
This trip is limited to 12 participants. Rain cancels.
REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lodi-lake-woodbridge-reserve-tickets-1050122313107
(Photo of Great Blue Heron by Maren Smith)

MDBA Field Trip — Palo Alto Baylands/Charleston Slough
2024-11-16 08:30 - 14:00 | Terminal Boulevard, Terminal Boulevard, Mountain View, CA, United States
We see a variety of birds on the water on this trip that is only about a 55 minute drive from Walnut Creek. It is exciting to be on the largest tract of undisturbed marshland remaining in the San Francisco Bay. Locations include Charleston Slough, Shoreline Lake, Palo Alto Baylands, and Redwood Shores.
Hike Rating: 1-Easy
Distance: We do some walking on flat terrain but drive from one location to the next.
Elevation change: Minor
Leaders: Herb and Randi Long at herblong7@gmail.com 925-948-5113
Meet: Meet at entrance to Palo Alto Baylands on Terminal Boulevard in Mountain View at 8:30 AM.
Directions: If using Google maps, enter “Terminal Boulevard Mountain View, CA.”
Take I-680 South 24 miles to Exit 12 for Mission Boulevard /State Route 262 (second Mission Blvd exit so that you head west on Mission Blvd). Keep right at the fork; follow signs for Mission Blvd West and merge onto CA-262 South/Mission Blvd. Continue through two traffic lights and take I-880 ramp South. In 3 miles, use the right two lanes to take CA-237 toward Mountain View. Connect to US-101 North toward San Francisco. Once on US-101 North, take Exit 400C for San Antonio Road. Turn right on San Antonio. Continue for about 0.4 mile and turn right onto Terminal Road and park. Entrance toPalo Alto Baylands is on the left. There is a bathroom at the entrance.
Drive time is about 1 hour + 5 minutes from Walnut Creek / Danville.
Bring lunch!
REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/palo-alto-baylandscharleston-slough-tickets-1050110126657
(American Avocets photo by Maren Smith)

MDBA Field Trip -- A Poorwill Quest
2024-11-21 17:00 - 19:30 | Morgan Territory Road, 2800 Morgan Territory Road, Clayton, CA, 94517
**Please note the time correction**
Hike up a fire road on the east face of North Peak in Mount Diablo State Park, to see Common Poorwills as they forage for moths along the fire roads through the chaparral. They will be detected by their eyeshine from our lights.
This is a nocturnal hike. It is Trail Category 3 because, although only 2 miles round-trip, the road is quite steep and there is a stream crossing near the trailhead with the possibility of getting wet feet. Bring layers, wellington-type boots that can be stashed in the bushes after the stream crossing for normal hiking wear, and a flashlight/headlamp. Expect to be in the field for ~1.5 hrs.
Hike Rating: Category 3 — Strenuous. Read trip details
Elevation change: Substantial, steep in places, and we will be descending after dark.
Leader: Jerry Britten
Meet: GPS 37°53’58.7″N 121°52’24.5″W
Directions: From Clayton drive east on Marsh Creek Road. Turn right on Morgan Territory Road and go about out 1500′, to a turnout on the right.
This field trip is limited to 5 Participants max, due to limited parking and the need for quiet.
REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/poorwill-quest-tickets-1050120698277
(Photo by Jerry Britten)

MDBA Field Trip -- Meeker Slough
2024-12-04 10:00 - 13:30 | Meeker Slough, Bayside Dr, Richmond, CA, 94804
Meeker Slough is a wetland area in Richmond, on the coast of San Francisco Bay. We’ll look for shorebirds, ducks, herons, and coastal passerines during the incoming tide. The walk is mostly on a paved and level trail. If time permits, we will also drive a few miles to check out Vincent Park and the Richmond Marina (Inner Harbor Basin). Please bring a spotting scope if you own one, I will bring two scopes if someone can carry one of them. I have a few loaner binoculars I can bring—if contacted ahead of time.
Dress in layers. Bring water, snacks and lunch if so choose.
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Ted Robertson, 925-899-1872
Meet: Parking Circle at the end of Bayside Drive, Richmond
Trailhead GPS coordinates: 37.911705, -122.338982
Directions: Take Hwy 580 to Richmond and and take Exit 10A for S. 23rd St/Marina Bay Pkwy. Head west onto Marina Bay Pkwy. In about 1 mile, turn left onto Bayside Drive. Park at or near the parking circle at the end of Bayside Dr. Trailhead is at the parking circle.
This trip is limited to 20 participants. Rain cancels.
REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meeker-slough-tickets-1052245593897
(Photo of Black Bellied Plover by Pam Lorenz)

MDBA Field Trip -- Lynch Canyon Open Space Preserve
2024-12-07 10:00 - 14:00 | Lynch Canyon Open Space Preserve, Fairfield, 3100 Lynch Rd, Fairfield, CA, 94534, United States
Lynch Canyon Open Space, an asset of the Solano County Land Trust, is a fantastic place for raptors in the winter! It’s also home to grassland species, and waterbirds on the reservoir.
The trails are wide and firmly packed but unpaved. Participants will be able to choose between two routes: A loop of about 2.5 miles around Lynch Reservoir, with some gentle elevation gain; or a longer loop of about 3.25 miles with a longer, steeper climb (14% grade at one stretch). Co-leaders will be present to accompany along either route. On both routes we’ll stop frequently to look for raptors, and to scope the reservoir.
Lynch Canyon is still a working ranch so we can expect to encounter free-ranging cattle. Some of the trails are part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail, and we may encounter bicyclists, e-bikes, and equestrians.
Please bring $6 (exact bills) for the off-season parking fee. Bring ample water (none is available on site) and sun protection. There is almost no shade on the trails.
There is a pit toilet at the parking lot. Solano County Land Trust asks us to bring our own hand sanitizer.
Bring snacks or lunch. On the longer loop, there are picnic tables.
Leaders: Susana de Trapaga, trapaga@sbcglobal.net, 510.333.2693 and Maureen Lahiff, MLahiff@aol.com, 510.484.6529
Hike Rating: 2 (longer route is 3) Elevation change on the longer loop trail option is approximately 500 feet.
Meeting place: Parking lot for Lynch Canyon Open Space
URL: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7mHmYSfFws1CmowQ6
Heavy rain cancels the trip. We’ll send an email if we’re cancelling, or if weather looks iffy.
Directions: Take I-80 east to exit 36, American Canyon Road/Hiddenbrook Pkwy. At the stop sign at the end of the exit ramp, turn right and then immediately left onto McGary Road, which runs alongside the freeway. After about 1.7 miles, turn left onto Lynch Road, pass under I-80, and drive all the way to the parking lot.
For more information about Lynch Canyon Open Space: https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/rm/countypark/lynchcyn.asp
REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lynch-canyon-tickets-1050134830547
(Image of Golden Eagle and Raven by Isaac Aronow)

Monthly Program: December 2024
2024-12-12 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Dr. Van Schmidt surveying a California Gull breeding colony on a levee in the salt ponds
Flows of Water and Waterbirds across California
Nathan Van Schmidt

Our December meeting will be held the second Thursday of the month, on December 12. We will meet in person at the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: Flows of Water and Waterbirds across California
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
7:30 PM Main Program: Flows of Water and Waterbirds across California
Nathan Van Schmidt

Water has always been the heart of California, providing essential habitat for both waterbirds and people. After the Gold Rush, California experienced rapid and widespread destruction and modification of natural hydrological ecosystems and wetlands. This included the rapid conversion of Delta wetlands to peat farmland, development of many North Bay and San Francisco wetlands, and the conversion of much of south San Francisco Bay to commercial salt production ponds. To recover endangered tidal marsh birds and protect communities from sea level rise, the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project is now restoring large swaths of tidal marsh habitat–but they are faced with a new dilemma: many bird species that had used wetlands lost or degraded elsewhere in California have come to use the salt ponds as accidental habitat. Drawing connections across a decade of research on waterbird use of anthropogenic habitats in California and beyond, Dr. Van Schmidt will discuss the contemporary challenges and promising paradigms for conservation of waterbirds in ecosystems that have already been grappling with repeated dramatic transformations over the past 175 years.
Dr. Van Schmidt is an ecologist whose research emphasizes understanding ecosystems and land-use as coupled systems, combining field research with simulation methodology. His talk will explore habitat use and connections between accidental anthropogenic wetland habitats not only in the San Francisco Bay’s salt ponds, but across California, and reflect on how efforts to adapt water-dependent ecosystems to climate change may have surprising trade-offs for wildlife that need to be accounted for. The talk will draw not only on his current work as Director of Landscape Sustainability Science, but also on past research at UC Berkeley on Black Rails in the Sierra Nevada, and on reintroduced Whooping Crane’s use of farmland.

Monthly Program: January 2025
2025-01-02 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Blood Pheasant. Photo by Bob Lewis
Birds of Bhutan
Bob Lewis

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, January 2 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:10 PM Christmas Bird Count Report
7:25 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:40 PM Main Program: Birds of Bhutan
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
Along with our main program, Mount Diablo Bird Alliance President Jerry Britten will report highlights of the 2024 Christmas Bird Counts.
7:30 PM Main Program: Bhutan – A Happy Place for Birds and Birders
Bob Lewis

The Himalayan Buddhist country of Bhutan calls itself the Happiest Place in the World, and indeed, it is a delight for birders. With over 60% of its land forested, from Alpine scrub to Tropical broadleaf habitats, there are many birds to be seen. Bob joined a spring 2024 tour and will discuss many interesting families of birds seen as the group traveled east from the airport at Paro, and then returned along the Indian border in the south. The talk is illustrated with many striking bird images, as well as some illustrations to give a feeling of a lovely country.
Bob trained as a chemist and worked in the energy field for 33 years. He’s taught birding classes in the Bay Area for over 30 years and served as the chair of Golden Gate Audubon’s Adult Education Committee. Recently he’s been giving classes and talks via Zoom. Bob was honored with American Birding Association’s Chandler Robbins Award for Education and Conservation in 2016, and Golden Gate Bird Alliance’s Paul Covel Education Award in 2010 and 2017. He loves to travel and photograph birds and has chased birds in over 60 countries. His life list is over 5400 species.

Contra Costa Large Day
2025-01-04 | CA
Saturday January 4, Predawn to Dusk
Spend the first Saturday of the New Year on an all-day birding trip that will visit several different habitats spread across Contra Costa County. To maximize the fun and minimize issues with parking, we’ll carpool, starting from a place or places to be discussed by the group—perhaps Heather Farm and/or Lafayette BART.
From the meeting point we’ll drive to Valle Vista, arriving before dawn to listen for owls and maybe spot a poorwill. We’ll spend the first part of the morning at this rich hotspot, then pile into our cars and drive west to Richmond where we’ll scope the Bay, and look for shorebirds. Then back east across the county on Highway 4, making multiple stops before finishing our day in the Delta. The exact itinerary will be determined partly by what we find during our Christmas Bird Counts.
“Big” days are known for their frenetic pace, with birders pushing hard to max out their species count. This “Large” day will be somewhat more relaxed. We’ll stay together in a group as much as possible, and take relaxed breaks when needed. The pace will still be more urgent than a typical field trip, though, and this is an all-day commitment—things to consider before signing up. More details to follow by email, to those who sign up. Please note that signups for this trip (and wait list) close a week in advance.
Hike Rating: 2 – moderate grades in some places, probably a few miles total walking throughout the day.
Elevation change: TBD, probably not over 100 feet in one climb.
Leader: Matthew Tarlach, 925-482-6129, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com
Meet: TBD
This special trip is for MDBA members only, and limited to 12 participants. We will carpool, hopefully fitting into 3 vehicles to minimize parking hassles. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/contra-costa-large-day-tickets-1090305837109
