Mount Diablo Bird Alliance

Introducing the Birds of Heather Farm
2023-10-29 08:30 - 10:30, 2023-11-01 08:30 - 10:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Sunday October 29, 8:30-10:30AM and
Wednesday November 1, 8:30-10:30AM
Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek is an underrated birding spot, home to dozens of resident species and attracting many migrants as well!
We’ll meet at the overlook of the Natural Lake, on the west side of North San Carlos Drive about 100 yards beyond the community center.
Meeting point GPS: 37.921260813409184, -122.04358260674651
At 8:30AM 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 begin scanning the lake too, looking 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 mostly 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, raptors and heron 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, that help tell one from the other. We should be done around 10:30, or 11 if the birding is especially good.
Birders of all experience levels are welcome! Binoculars will be available to borrow for those who need them. Trip will go on in gray weather, but rain or high wind cancels.
Signup for Oct 29 here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/734957556837
or for Nov 1 here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/737238278537
Image of White-breasted Nuthatch by Matt Tarlach

Monthly Program: November 2023
2023-11-02 19:00 - 20:30 | Don Tatzin Community Hall at the Lafayette Library at 3491 Mount Diablo Blvd, Lafayette, 94549, 3491 Mount Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, CA, 94549, United States
Bio-Bowerman
Dan Fitzgerald and Dan Sandri, Mount Diablo Interpretive Association

The two Dans will take you on a walk along the highest trail on Mount Diablo, highlighting some of the insects like bees, dragonflies and butterflies, unusual plants, and a few birds that they have photographed along this 3/4-mile loop which circumnavigates the summit. Learn about the fabulous Mary Bowerman, who inspired the naming of this popular trail. Along this trail, because of the elevation, flowers bloom later than at lower parts of the mountain, providing insects with nectar later into the summer. The soils, elevation, and isolation of the peak impact the variety of flora and fauna found here, contributing to some of the rarities that can be seen. The summit and the trail lie entirely within early Franciscan Complex geologic rocks – greywacke, chert, greenstone, and mélange. Come along on this photo-filled exploration led by two local naturalists!
Dan Fitzgerald grew up in Concord with a view of the mountain and spent time exploring it. After retirement he became a state park volunteer active in environmental cleanup and as a docent in our visitor center and out on the trail. He is a California Naturalist and leads nature hikes for MDIA where he serves as Treasurer and a board director since 2016.
Dan Sandri has lived in the East Bay nearly all of his life, and the mountain has always been his favorite hiking place. With a B. S. degree in Entomology he enjoys observing and photographing insects, birds, reptiles, as well as other plant and animal life. Upon retirement, Dan became a volunteer visitor center docent, a member of the Native Plant Garden team, and a back-country rover. He is a California Naturalist and leads nature hikes for MIDA where he serves as Secretary and a board director since 2020.

Genus Eulonchus, Mary Bowerman Trail, Mount Diablo State Park.

MDAS Field Trip — Palo Alto Baylands/Charleston Slough
2023-11-04 09:00 - 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: Category 2 – Moderate. 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 9:00am.
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 to Palo Alto Baylands is on the left. There is a bathroom at the entrance. Drive time is about one hour/ 5 minutes from Walnut Creek/Danville.
Bring lunch!
This hike is limited to 15 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration). Register for this event HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/720666291277
(Photo of American Avocets by Maren Smith)

MDAS Field Trip -- Lodi Lake & Woodbridge Preserve
2023-11-15 09:00 - 13:30 | Lodi Lake, 1101 W. Turner Rd, Lodi, CA, 95242, United States
** Please note change in trip date **
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 Preserve, where we’ll see waterfowl and other birds, including hopefully some early-arriving Sandhill Cranes.
Dress in layers. Bring water, snacks and lunch if you choose. This trip is limited to 12 participants. Rain cancels.
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). Parking fee $5/car or $3/car for seniors. CASH only.
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.)
Register for this event HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/699234347757
(Photo of Great Blue Heron by Maren Smith)

MDAS Field Trip -- Mt. View Sanitary and McNabney Marsh
2023-11-21 09:00 - 12:00 | Mountain View Sanitary District, 3800 Arthur Rd, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
We expect to see a variety of water birds here, from grebes and ducks to waders and peeps. Marsh passerines and raptors might also be present. This trip is suitable for beginners.
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy. Under 1 mile on flat terrain. Unpaved paths, potentially muddy.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Randy Huey, 925-518-8439
Meet: Mt. View Sanitary Visitor Center at 9:00 AM
Directions: Exit from I-680 southbound at Arthur Road, turn left and go under the freeway. Exit I-680 northbound at Pacheco Blvd, turn right onto Arthur Road and go under the freeway. Arthur Road will turn left. At .4 miles turn sharp left onto Mt. View Sanitary’s private road. Follow the road through the entry gate, alongside the freeway and through the tunnel under I-680. Park and sign-in at the Visitor Center.
Limited to 15 participants. All Field Trips are first-registered, first-served. Participants acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration). Register for this trip here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mt-view-sanitarymcnabney-marsh-tickets-736239511197
(Image of Green Heron by Matt Tarlach)

Monthly Program: December 2023
2023-12-07 19:00 - 20:30 | Walnut Creek Civic Park Assembly Hall, 1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94596, United States
New Zealand: Great Walks and Great Birds
Jill Hedgecock

Jill Hedgecock will share photos from her hiking and birding adventures in the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Come experience the wonders of Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a trek that takes adventurous souls over an active volcano and which has been described as the best one-day trek in New Zealand. This hike also has the distinction of requiring the highest number of search and rescues! On the South Island, the 20+ mile, three-day Routeburn Great Walk offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, mirrored lakes, and flowing turquoise water. Sections of this hike are so pristine that unfiltered water is safe to drink. New Zealand’s birding opportunities did not disappoint. Photos of iridescent wood pigeons, the endemic takahe, little blue penguins, and mischievous kea parrots (the only alpine parrot in the world) will be shared.
Jill Hedgecock, who has spoken on topics from rhino conservation, microplastics, and falconry in Scotland, returns to share more of her international travels with the Mount Diablo Bird Alliance. She has a M.S. degree in Environmental Management. She previously served as the International Conservation Coordinator for the club back in the early 1990s and was a long-term leader of the Black Diamond Mine Christmas Count circle.

Kea, the only alpine parrot Photo: Jill Hedgecock

MDAS Field Trip -- Lynch Canyon Open Space Preserve, Fairfield
2023-12-09 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.
Hike Rating: 2 (longer route is 3) Elevation change on the longer loop trail option is approximately 500 feet.
Leaders: Susana de Trapaga (trapaga@sbcglobal.net) 510.333.2693 and Maureen Lahiff (MLahiff@aol.com), 510.484.6529
Meet: Parking lot for Lynch Canyon Open Space
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.
Heavy rain cancels the trip. We’ll send an email if we’re cancelling, or if weather looks iffy. Participants acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration). Register for this trip here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lynch-canyon-tickets-736130916387
(Golden Eagle and Raven photo by Isaac Aronow)

MDBA Field Trip -- Putah Creek
2024-01-03 09:00 - 14:00 | Putah Creek, Pleasants Valley Road, Vacaville, CA, 95688, United States
This is a great chance to see a variety of birds and ducks along Putah Creek and Lake Solano. Possibilities include Osprey, Lewis’s Woodpecker, Phainopepla, Barrow’s Goldeneye and Hooded Merganser. Dress warmly; this is a cold, windy area. Bring lunch, and bring $6 in exact bills to pay the parking fee at Solano County Park.
Exact itinerary to be determined the day of the trip. Rain cancels.
Hike rating: 1 – Easy
Elevation change: Minor
Distance: Depending on the route decided.
Co-Leaders: Maren Smith, 925-322-9477, Susana de Trapaga
Meet: 9 AM at the large gravel pull-out on the right side of Putah Creek Road, west of the Lake Solano dam.
Directions: When driving from the Bay Area to Vacaville on I-80, take Exit 51A at Cherry Glen and Lagoon Valley Roads. Turn left to cross over the freeway, heading north, and drive approximately 1 mile on Cherry Glen Road to stop sign at Pleasants Valley Road. Turn left on Pleasants Valley Road. Drive 12 miles and keep an eye out for Yellow-billed Magpies and raptors. Turn right on Putah Creek Road, and drive about 1.2 miles, to the large gravel parking turn-out on the right (with “no camping, no dumping” signs). It’s about a 1 hour drive from Walnut Creek area.
PLEASE NOTE that the location marked on the map by Eventbrite is a few hundred yards east of the actual meeting location.
This trip is limited to 20 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/putah-creek-birding-tickets-777429551717
Photo: Female Phainopepla at Putah Creek by Isaac Aronow

Monthly Program: January 2024
2024-01-04 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom, CA, United States
A Life Bird in Every State
Jennifer Rycenga
A Life Bird in Every State recounts one birder’s journey across the United States to ensure that every one of the fifty states would have a distinct memory and honor in her birding annals. Part birding narrative, part travelogue, and part reflection on America, this talk recounts the adventures, successes, occasional (temporary) failures of this quixotic quest.
Jennifer Rycenga is the Past President of Sequoia Audubon Society in San Mateo county, and an avid proponent of iNaturalist, eBird, and community science. Recently retired and relocated to Rochester New York, she is an academic who writes on American abolitionism and women’s history.

Webinar Access Info:

Date:
January 4, 2024 7:00 PM Pacific Time

Time:
7:00 PM–8:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Location:
Zoom online meeting

Access:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88122680065?pwd=[REDACTED]

Meeting ID:
881 2268 0065

Passcode:
[REDACTED]

Phone access:
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,88122680065#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+14086380968,,88122680065#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)

MDBA Field Trip -- East Contra Costa County
2024-01-08 09:00 - 13:00 | Big Break Regional Shoreline, 69 Big Break Road, Oakley, CA, 94561, United States
We will be birding at Big Break/Delta Science Center, Iron House Sanitary, and possibly other places in East Contra Costa. This area is usually good for waterfowl, raptors and some passerines. Dress warmly, bring lunch and drinks. This trip is appropriate for birders of all experience levels, including beginners.
Hike Rating: 1-Easy
Elevation change: N/A
Leaders: Randy Huey 925-518-8439, Mona Lange 510-414-2959
Meet: Big Break parking lot in Oakley at 9 AM.
Directions: Take Highway 4 east toward Stockton/Pittsburg, after Antioch take right Exit 30 toward CA-160/Sacramento/Rio Vista. Take Exit 1A, East 18th/Main Street, turn right at the bottom of the exit onto Main Street, proceed east a little over 1 mile, then turn left onto Big Break Road. Turn into Big Break Regional Shoreline/Delta Science Center just past the last houses on the right.
This field trip is limited to 12 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birds-of-east-contra-costa-county-tickets-777436723167
Photo: Pied-billed Grebe by Isaac Aronow

MDBA Field Trip -- Lake Merritt and Arrowhead Marsh at High Tide
2024-01-11 08:30 - 13:00 | Lake Merritt, 699 Bellevue Ave, Oakland, CA, 94610, United States
Winter ducks on Lake Merritt and other birds usually means easy viewing from the sidewalk. The lake is one of the few places in the Bay Area where Barrow’s Goldeneyes can be seen. An entry fee to pass the gate at Children’s Fairyland is usually required.
We will move to Arrowhead Marsh at around 9:45AM, arriving in time for the high tide. Ridgeway’s Rails are one of the highlights here, though we will see many other birds. A visit to Garretson Point will follow.
Bring lunch and drinks. This trip is appropriate for birders of all experience levels, including beginners.
Hike rating: Category 1–Easy
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Sandy Ritchie, (925) 381-2514
Meet: Lake Merritt parking lot off Bellevue Avenue, 8:30 AM
Directions: Take SR 24 to Oakland and I-980, take 27th Street exit and turn left. Cross Broadway and Harrison, then join Grand Avenue. Turn into the park at Children’s Fairyland (fee possible) and follow the road around to parking lot entrance on right between the boathouse and the aviary.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lake-merritt-and-arrowhead-marsh-at-high-tide-tickets-777453021917
Photo: Barrow’s Goldeneye

MDBA Field Trip -- Shollenberger Park/Ellis Creek
2024-01-13 08:30 - 15:00 | Shollenberger Park, 1400 Cader Lane, Petaluma, CA, 94954, United States
Both of these locations are great for wintering waders, shorebirds, waterfowl and a few raptors. Bring lunch and a beverage. This trip is appropriate for birders of all experience levels, including beginners.
Hike rating: Category 2 – Moderate. Walking some distance and gentle slopes.
Elevation change: Minor
Leader: Sandy Ritchie, (925) 381-2514
Meet: Point Blue parking lot at 8:30 AM
Directions: Take I-680 across the Benicia Bridge. Go west on I-780 to I-80 towards Sacramento, exit to SR37. Follow SR37 16 miles to Lakeville Road, then turn right. Before reaching Petaluma, look for the water recycling facility on the left and turn left on South McDowell Blvd. After a short distance, turn left onto Cypress Dr. The Shollenberger access is behind the Point Blue offices on the right.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/shollenberger-parkellis-creek-tickets-777462319727
Photo: Black-necked Stilt by Jean Halford

MDBA Field Trip -- American Canyon Wetlands
2024-01-15 08:00 - 12:00 | American Canyon Wetlands Edge Park, 2 Eucalyptus Drive, American Canyon, CA, 94503, United States
A walk out to the wetlands, ponds and sloughs along the Napa River produces many exciting birding opportunities. We expect plenty of waterfowl, raptors, waders, shorebirds and passerines. It can be breezy and cold in this area, so bring appropriate layers. Availability of rest rooms is uncertain. This trip is suitable for birders of all ages – including beginners!
Hike Rating: Category 2-Moderate
Distance: We may walk 2-3 miles depending on the route decided.
Elevation change: none
Leader: Randy Huey, 925-518-8439
Meet: Parking lot at the end of Eucalyptus Drive at 8 AM.
Directions: Go north on I-680 to Benicia, merge left onto I-780 west to Vallejo, exit to I-80 East, merge to Hwy 37 west (Exit 33). Exit at CA 29/Sonoma Blvd toward Napa. After 1.5 miles turn left on W American Canyon Road, at end turn right on Wetlands Edge Road. Turn left on Eucalyptus Drive and into parking lot.
This field trip is limited to 20 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/american-canyon-wetlands-tickets-77744574013
Photo: Northern Harrier over the Napa River by Isaac Aronow.

MDBA Field Trip -- Martinez Waterfront
2024-01-24 09:00 - 14:00 | Waterbird Regional Preserve, Martinez, 2701 Waterfront Rd., Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
We will be birding multiple locations for this MDBA Martinez Shoreline field trip, looking for shorebirds, waders, waterfowl, gulls, raptors and others. Areas will include Waterbird Preserve (overlooking McNabney Marsh), TransMontaigne Pipeline, Mococo Marsh and Martinez Regional Shoreline. Precise driving directions for each location (with mileage) will be handed out when we gather in the Waterbird Regional Preserve parking lot. Walkie-talkies for each vehicle will also be available.
Dress warmly, bring a lunch and drinks.
This trip is appropriate for birders of all experience levels. Beginners are especially welcome!
Hike Rating: Category 1 – Easy
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Tracy Farrington, 925-788-6223, tracy_farrington@yahoo.com
Meet: Waterbird Regional Preserve parking lot at 9 AM.
Directions: From I-680 north, exit Waterfront Road, turn right. (When driving north on I-680, this is the last exit before the Benicia Bridge). Continue east about 1/2 mile and turn right onto Waterbird Way. Go around the bend to the left and then turn right into the Waterbird Preserve parking lot.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-the-martinez-waterfront-tickets-777441126337
Photo: Snowy Egret by Beth Branthaver

Monthly Program: February 2024
2024-02-01 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Cross-country Birding adventure
Robert Raffel

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, February 1, 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: Cross-country Birding Adventure
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
Last year at this time, Robert was sleeping in his car in sub-zero temperatures in search of Snowy Owls and other birds from the far north. At our February meeting, Robert will share the highlights of his six month road trip, which included birding along the Canadian border from Washington to Maine in January, birding Florida and the Texas Coast during spring migration, and then birding from Arkansas to Minnesota back to Oregon in the beginning of the breeding season. Robert has plenty of pictures of his favorite birds including some that show identification challenges and insights he encountered along the way. Robert’s presentation will also share his perspectives on birding various parts of the country as well as considerations to take into account in planning your own trip.
Robert Raffel grew up in Pennsylvania and began birding as a teenager. In his 30s, he started birding more seriously, traveling extensively throughout the continental United States, building his life list. In his 40s and 50s, Robert took a break from birding and focused on raising his two sons. Once they could drive and no longer needed his services, Robert picked up his binoculars again and found that eBird and digital photography had completely changed birding for the better.

MDBA Field Trip -- Thornton Area/Cosumnes Preserve
2024-02-03 08:45 - 14:00 | Westgate Landing Regional Park, 4GF5+HP, Terminous, CA, 95242, United States
Tundra Swans, Sandhill Cranes, hawks and grassland birds. Trip will go on in light rain. Bring lunch and a beverage. If questions, call the leader.
Hike rating: 1 – Easy.
Elevation change: Minor
Distance: Depending on the route decided.
Leader: Ethan Chickering, 925-890-3833
Meet: 8:45 AM in Westgate Landing Park at end of Glascock Road.

Directions: Take SR 4 to Antioch Bridge, go north on SR 160 along river to Rio Vista bridge. Turn right on SR 12 for 11.5 miles. East of Terminous, turn right onto the exit to Glasscock Rd. The road will go under the bridge. Turn left onto Glasscock Rd. proper and continue to the park at the end.
This field trip is limited to 16 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-in-the-thornton-area-including-cosumnes-preserve-tickets-777449772197

MDBA Field Trip -- Walnut Creek Parks
2024-02-07 08:30 - 12:00 | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Starting in Heather Farm Park, we will walk around the large, mostly natural pond, birding along the way. We will visit one or two other parks within the city, to be determined the day of the trip.
This is a great trip for beginners!
Rating: Category 2-Moderate
Elevation change: N/A at Heather Farm, perhaps some climbing later at Borges Ranch.
Leader: Randi and Herb Long, hrlong13@sbcglobal.net
Meet: Wooden railing at the natural pond (not the one surrounded with concrete.)
Directions: Turn into the park on North San Carlos Drive from Ygnacio Valley Road. This is east of John Muir Hospital – the intersection has a Shell and a Chevron gas station. Drive past the community building to the stop sign and turn left into the parking lot. The wooden railing is straight ahead.
This field trip is limited to 10 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walnut-creek-city-parks-tickets-797317166107

MDBA Field Trip — Grizzly Island & Rush Ranch
2024-02-19 09:00 - 13:00 | Grizzly Island Wildlife Area, 2548 Grizzly Island Road, Fairfield, CA, 94585, United States
Grizzly Island provides habitat for more than 200 species of birds and is home to a variety of threatened or endangered wildlife and plants. Our trip will begin at the Refuge Headquarters and continue for about 7 ½ miles along Grizzly Island Road, which is unpaved and runs through the middle of the Wildlife Area.
Since this trip will involve a car caravan through the wildlife preserve, with limited roadside parking pulloffs, we need to limit the size of our group to no more than 5 vehicles. Accordingly, carpooling to the preserve is encouraged. In the event we arrive at the meeting point with more than 5 vehicles we will need to share cars from that point. There is parking available at the meeting point.
Some things you may need for our outing at Grizzly Island: binoculars, drinking water, sun block, insect repellent, warm jacket, and appropriate footwear. Also, bring lunch and drinks.
Leader: Randy Huey, 925-518-8439
Hike Rating: Category 1-Easy
Elevation change: N/A
Meet: Wildlife Refuge Headquarters, 2548 Grizzly Island Road, Suisun, CA 94585
https://maps.app.goo.gl/sMFsZbgnKacKHn8L9
Directions: From Central Contra Costa County, take I-680 N toward Sacramento. Take Highway 12 off-ramp east toward Rio Vista. Turn onto Grizzly Island Road, at the stoplight at Sunset Shopping Center. Hill Slough Wildlife Area is on both sides of Grizzly Island Road from Highway 12 to the first one-lane bridge. The Grizzly Island Complex Headquarters is 9.5 miles further on Grizzly Island Road.
The trip is limited to 15 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-at-grizzly-island-refuge-and-rush-ranch-tickets-797318841117

Introducing the Birds of Heather Farm
2024-02-21 08:30 - 10:30 | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
A casual walk for birders of all experience levels, and especially beginners!
Wednesday, February 21, 2024, 8:30 – 10:30am
Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek is an underrated birding spot, home to dozens of resident species and attracting many migrants 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.
At 8:30AM 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 begin scanning the lake too, to see which ducks and other birds might be in town for 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 mostly 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 tell one from the other.
We should be done around 10:30. Birders of all experience levels are welcome! Binoculars will be available to borrow for those who need them. Trip will go on in gray weather, but rain or high wind cancels.
Free event, with pre-registration requested.
Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/introducing-the-birds-of-heather-farm-tickets-802310411037

MDBA Field Trip -- Bodega Bay
2024-02-24 09:30 - 15:00 | Bodega Bay Trailhead, Bodega Bay Trailhead, Bodega Bay, CA, 94923
Why do we go all the way to Bodega Bay? To see loons close up – the Common, Pacific, and Red-throated species are all likely. To see Brant. To see Double-crested, Brandt’s and Pelagic cormorants side-by-side to strengthen your ID skills. This is a great place for birders of all levels and birders new to the Bay Area.
Due to the tide times, we’ll start at 9:30AM at Bodega Head – NOT our previous meeting point at the Tides restaurant. You might still want to make a rest stop at the Tides before continuing out to the Head, where there are only park-style pit toilets.
After birding Bodega Head we’ll work our way back along the western shore of Bodega Bay, with stops including the “Hole in the Head,” Campbell Cove, and Porto Bodega Marina. Somewhere along the way we’ll pause for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon we may continue to Doran Beach Road on the east side of the harbor. There’s a $7 parking fee at Doran Regional Park.
Be prepared for variable weather. Bring lunch, snacks, and liquids. There is a chemical toilet “porta-potty” at Porto Bodega Marina, pit toilets above the Hole in the Head, and restrooms with flush toilets at Doran Beach. For a comfort stop near the end of the drive out stop at Tides Wharf and Restaurant (on the shore side opposite the Inn at the Tides, 800 Highway 1), though the snack bar will probably be closed.
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy, with little elevation change
Leader: Maureen Lahiff, MLahiff@aol.com, 510-484-6529
Meet at Bodega Head, GPS: 38.30356934, -123.06467926
Directions: Take US 101 north to Petaluma. Exit at Washington and head SW. Washington becomes Bodega Ave, which becomes Petaluma-Valley Ford Rd, which eventually merges into CA Hwy 1. Take Hwy 1 to Bodega Bay. Just past “downtown” Bodega Bay turn left on Eastshore Road, and follow it down to Bay Flat Road and turn right. Bay Flat Road becomes the Westshore Road. Follow the Westshore Road all the way to the end, up the hill past Campbell Cove to the large parking lot. From Walnut Creek, it’s about a 2 hour drive.
This field trip is limited to 20. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-bodega-bay-tickets-797319342617

MDBA Field Trip -- Bodega Bay Copy
2024-02-24 09:30 - 15:00 | Bodega Bay Trailhead, Bodega Bay Trailhead, Bodega Bay, CA, 94923

MDBA Field Trip -- A Poorwill Quest!
2024-02-29 18:00 - 19:30 | Morgan Territory Road, 2800 Morgan Territory Road, Clayton, CA, 94517
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.
Trail Rating: 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. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/poorwill-quest-tickets-797989637487
(Common Poorwill photo by Jerry Britten)

MDBA Field Trip -- Contra Loma Regional Park
2024-03-06 08:30 - 13:00 | Contra Loma Reservoir, 1200 Frederickson Ln, Antioch, CA, 94509, United States
We will be birding the reservoir, Loma Island and surrounding grassland areas. Expected species include waterfowl, woodland, riparian/marsh, shore and grassland birds. Dress appropriately, bring lunch and drinks. This is a good trip for beginners!
Trail Rating: 1 – Easy
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Mona Lange
Meet: Contra Loma Regional Park–Channel Point Parking Lot
Directions: From Hwy. 4 in Antioch, go south on Lone Tree Way. Continue south to Golf Course Road and turn right. Continue on Golf Course Road to Frederickson Lane, turn right and continue into the park and the entry kiosk. Fee required at kiosk. Turn left and park in the first lot on the right, Channel Point Parking Lot.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-contra-loma-regional-park-tickets-797319462977
(Photo of American White Pelican by Jerry Britten)

Monthly Program: March 2024
2024-03-07 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Birds of Palomarin
Larissa Babicz

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, March 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 Palomarin
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
Larissa is a wildlife artist and biologist who works almost exclusively with birds. She has been working seasonal field jobs since she graduated from Dickinson College in 2020 and has found huge inspiration while out in nature! Her goal is to share her experiences in the field and bring the beauty of the natural world to her community through her drawings.
This piece was inspired by a recent apprenticeship at Point Blue’s Palomarin Field Station, where she learned about bird banding and conservation science. She was an apprentice for nearly eight months from February to October, and the season included the spring migration, breeding season, and part of fall migration. She and her fellow apprentices banded a total of 78 bird species during this time, each of which is represented in the drawing. The piece is meant to represent all aspects of the Palomarin banding program, including the plants that were studied at the sites and a variety of bird age classes. Completed in April 2023, the Birds of Palomarin, while being in part an educational piece, evolved into a way to thank everyone she worked with at Palomarin and show her love for the birds.

MDBA Field Trip -- Mt. View Sanitary and McNabney Marsh
2024-03-11 08:30 - 12:30 | Mountain View Sanitary District, 3800 Arthur Rd, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
We’ll begin by scanning McNabney Marsh from the viewing platform, then head over to Moorhen Marsh at Mt. View Sanitary District—one of the first water treatment facilities in the US to be developed as bird habitat. We expect to see a variety of waterbirds at these locations, from grebes and ducks to waders and peeps. Marsh passerines and raptors might also be present. This trip is great for beginners!
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy. Under 1 mile on flat terrain. Unpaved paths, potentially muddy.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Sandy Ritchie & Matt Tarlach
Meet: Meet at the wooden observation deck overlooking McNabney Marsh, east of I-680, at 8:30 AM.
Directions: Exit from I-680 southbound at Arthur Road, turn left and go under the freeway. Exit I-680 northbound at Pacheco Blvd, turn right onto Arthur Road and go under the freeway.
Arthur Road will turn left. At .4 miles turn sharp left onto Mt. View Sanitary’s private road. Follow the road through the entry gate, with the freeway to your left and the marsh to your right, until you arrive at the gravel parking lot by the observation deck.
Limited to 15 participants. Sign up HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-mt-view-sanitarymcnabney-marsh-tickets-797319884237
(Photo of Green Heron by Matt Tarlach)

MDBA Field Trip -- Valle Vista
2024-03-18 08:00 - 12:00 | Valle Vista, RVC6+WQ, Moraga, CA, 94556, United States
A walk through various habitats at the EBMUD property usually allows to see at least 40-50 species. Bring your EBMUD trail pass, if you have one. This property is at the upstream end of the Upper San Leandro Reservoir. If it has been raining, the first part could be a bit muddy but most of the route is on a gravel trail or a road.
Trail Rating: Category 2, Moderate
Elevation change: Some minor changes
Leader: Ted Robertson, 925-899-1872
Meet: Valle Vista Staging Area, Canyon Road
Directions: From SR 24 in Orinda, take Moraga Way to Moraga. From Mt. Diablo Blvd in Lafayette, take Moraga Road south to Moraga. At the Chevron station, go south 1 mile on Canyon Road to Valle Vista Staging Area.
This field trip is limited to 16 participants, with pre-registration required. MDBA members receive priority in registration but non-members are welcome, if we have enough spots.
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-valle-vista-tickets-842470781787
(Photo of Red-breasted Sapsucker by Isaac Aronow)

Introducing the Birds of Heather Farm
2024-03-26 08:30 - 10:30 | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
This event, which I’ll try to hold monthly, is a casual bird walk meant to be especially beginner friendly. These walks will be promoted beyond MDBA, at Walnut Creek City Parks and Wild Birds Unlimited.
Signups are limited to 10 to ensure beginners can receive personal attention.
Experienced birders from MDBA don’t need to sign up in advance for this event! If you’re a member and will come prepared to share your experience with new birders—both members of our chapter and not-yet-members—please just come by! (Advance signup is still necessary for our other trips.)
Details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/introducing-the-birds-of-heather-farm-tickets-842520911727
(Photo of White-breasted Nuthatch by Matt Tarlach)

MDBA Field Trip -- A Poorwill Quest, Redux!
2024-04-03 19:15 - 21:15 | Morgan Territory Road, 2800 Morgan Territory Road, Clayton, CA, 94517
Repeating a successful expedition, we’ll 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 and exchanged for normal hiking boots, and a flashlight/headlamp. Expect to be in the field for ~1.5 hrs.
Trail Rating: 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.
Sign up HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/poorwill-quest-tickets-856589772067
(Common Poorwill photo by Jerry Britten)

Monthly Program: April 2024
2024-04-04 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Red-shafted Northern Flicker, Photo by Jeffery R. Martin
Bay Area Woodpeckers
Jeffery R. Martin

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, April 4, 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: Bay Area Woodpeckers
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
Woodpeckers have captured the human imagination for generations. The distant sounds of pecking, flashes of red plumage, and inevitable disappearance into the shadows of the forest evoke a sense of wonder about these extraordinary yet elusive creatures. Jeffery Martin’s lecture and his close-up high-definition video segments explore the foraging strategies of our eight Bay Area woodpecker species. Insect excavation, acorn storage, the use of sap wells and other intriguing behaviors are our focus. Jeff’s video segments illustrate unique evolutionary adaptations. We examine the anatomy of feet, tail, tongue and head which enable agile vertical climbing, adept grabbing of prey, and protection from concussion and dust inhalation. From the exquisite green and rose-colored Lewis’s Woodpecker to the dazzling Northern Flicker, and more, we take a close-up look at the worlds of our eight North Bay Woodpeckers.
Videographer and naturalist, Jeffery Martin has filmed and produced “Bahia Wildlife Habitat” and “Birds of Las Gallinas Marsh” which can be viewed on the web sites of Marin Audubon Society and Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District. His films, “Woodpecker Haven” and “Birds of Lake Solano and Putah Creek” have been shown at the Lake Solano Visitors Center and Solano Parks Website. His “Bay Area Woodpeckers” and “Foraging Behavior in Large Wading Birds” lecture/video programs have been presented at several Bay Area Audubon Societies. In the past, Jeff has contributed to the slide library, visitor literature and campfire talks for Pt. Reyes National Seashore. He has created an assortment of natural history walks, lectures and training for adults and children. In another vein, he has lectured to college faculty, students, and National Park Service Rangers on “visitor motivation” and the “psychology of nature” including on safari in East Africa. In his “day job” Jeff is a clinical psychologist and associate clinical professor at UCSF School of Medicine.

Lewis’s Woodpecker Photo by Jeffery R. Martin
