MDBA Field Trip -- Bodega Bay
2024-02-24 09:30 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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

MDBA Field Trip -- North Briones
2024-04-09 08:30 - 12:00 | Briones Regional Park (North), XV37+VX, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
This walk begins in oak woodlands with lots of spring wildflowers and birds. We then continue through grasslands ending at Sindicich Lagoons. We return the way we came, with about 3 miles round trip over hilly dirt trails. Bring liquids & a snack if you wish.
Trail Rating: Category 3 – hilly trails.
Elevation change: 300+ feet
Leader: Cheryl Abel, 925-957-6229
Meet: Parking area at the north entrance of Briones Regional Park.
Directions: Take Briones Road off Alhambra Valley Road and drive up this narrow, winding road, park at the end.
The field trip is limited to 15 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver.
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-north-briones-tickets-841317221457
(Photo of Red-tailed Hawk by Isaac Aronow)

MDBA Field Trip -- Black Diamond Mines
2024-04-11 08:00 - 13:00 | Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, X45P+PP, Antioch, CA, 94565, United States
This trip includes a vigorous climb up a steep trail with an elevation gain of several hundred feet. Why? Because the location offers the best chance in our MDBA territory to see and hear Canyon Wrens! The trail is rocky, and footing can be tricky. Be advised!
There is no guarantee on finding the wrens either—but we will certainly see many other birds. California Thrasher, Rufous-crowned Sparrow and Phainopepla are often seen here though again, nothing is certain. At the worst we will share an adventure in a beautiful and historically interesting location. Bring water to drink, and lunch.
Trail Rating: Category 3, difficult uphill trail, potentially hot.
Elevation change: 600 feet
Leader: Matt Tarlach, MDBAFieldtrips@gmail.com
Meet: Black Diamond Mines parking lot at top of Somersville Road.
Directions: Exit Hwy 4 at Somersville Road in Antioch. Drive south, enter the park gate and drive about 1 mile uphill to the last parking lot at road’s end.
This trip is limited to 12 participants.
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-hike-at-black-diamond-mines-tickets-860407952347

MDBA Field Trip -- Orinda Connector Trail
2024-04-16 08:00 - 11:30 | Orinda Connector trail, VQXQ+XR, Orinda, CA, 94563, United States
A walk through an EBMUD property requires a trail permit. If you have one, bring it with you. We’ll walk downhill through riparian woods to San Pablo Creek, then across some open lands toward the face of Briones Dam. Wood Ducks are possible though hard to find; some spring birds will have arrived.
Trail Rating: Category 2-Moderate
Elevation change: Moderate
Leader: Ted Robertson, 925-899-1872
Meet: Trailhead at Camino Pablo and Bear Creek Road
Directions: Exit SR-24 at Orinda and turn north on Camino Pablo. Drive just over 2 miles to the intersection with Bear Creek Road. The trailhead parking is on the right, near the northeast corner of the intersection.
Due to limited space along the trail this field trip is limited to 12 participants. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-the-orinda-connector-trail-tickets-842472717577
(Photo of WIlson’s Warbler by Cassie Tzur)

MDBA Field Trip -- Mitchell Canyon
2024-04-18 08:00 - 13:00 | Mitchell Canyon, 96 Mitchell Canyon Road, Clayton, CA, 94517, United States
We will walk into Mitchell Canyon on the lower slopes of Mount Diablo State Park. Many spring birds are possible here, warblers, hummingbirds, flycatchers, gnatcatchers and more. Spring flowers may still be blooming. This is a good trip for beginners.
Trail Rating: Category 3. 3+ miles on a potentially hot, dusty trail.
Elevation change: up to 400 feet
Leader: Sandy Ritchie, (925) 381-2514
Meet: Mitchell Canyon parking lot, Clayton.
Directions: From Ygnacio Valley Road in Concord, turn south on Clayton Road. Turn right onto Mitchell Canyon Road and drive past quarry to end. A $6 parking fee is required—bring exact bills.
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-mitchell-canyon-tickets-860627438837
(Wilson’s Warbler photo by Jerry Britten)

MDBA Field Trip -- Pine Canyon
2024-04-20 08:00 - 13:00 | 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.
