Mount Diablo Bird Alliance

MDAS Field Trip -- Valle Vista
2022-03-18 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Valle Vista, RVC6+WQ, Moraga, CA, 94556, United States
Valle Vista
Friday, March 18, 8 AM-Noon
Leader: Don Lewis, 925-284-5480
A walk through various habitats at the EBMUD property will allow us to see 50-60 species. If you have one, bring your EBMUD pass. This property is at the upstream end of Upper San Leandro Reservoir.
Rating: Category 2, Moderate
Elevation change: Some moderate changes
Leader: Don Lewis, 925-284-5480
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 20 participants. Register for the event HERE starting on 2/20. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Rufous Hummingbird photo by Jerry Britten)

MDAS Field Trip -- Lake Lagunitas
2022-03-23 09:00 - 13:00 | Lake Lagunitas, WCX2+JX, Fairfax, CA, 94930, United States
Lake Lagunitas

Wednesday, March 23, 9 AM-1 PM
Leader: Hugh Harvey, 925-935-2979
Spring is approaching and we will enjoy birds and flowers on the north slope of Mount Tamalpais. The lake is part of the watershed for Marin Water District. An $8 entry fee is required. After birding below the dam, we will hike around Lake Lagunitas.
Rating: Category 2-Moderate
Elevation change: Some moderate changes
Leader: Hugh B. Harvey, 925-935-2979
Directions: Cross the San Rafael Bridge to US 101 north. Take the first San Rafael exit, go left on 3rd Street. In San Anselmo turn right onto Sir Francis Drake Blvd, cpontinue to Fairfax. Go left on Fairfax Bolinas Road, follow to left turn on Sky Oaks Road and continue to Kiosk. After paying $8 fee at kiosk, drive to the last parking lot near the foot of Lagunitas Dam.
This trip is limited to 15 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 2/20. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Pileated Woodpecker photo by Beth Branthaver)

MDAS Field Trip -- Tomales Bay State Park
2022-03-26 08:30 - 13:00 | Heart’s Desire Beach, Hearts Desire Beach, Inverness, CA, 94937, United States
Tomales Bay State Park
Saturday, March 26, 8:30 AM-1 PM
Leader: Linda Shinn, 925-597-0234
A popular site for birding along Tomales Bay, including a hike from Heart’s Desire Beach to Indian Beach. We return uphll around the wet meadow behind Indian Beach. Some water fowl, forest birds and Osprey are possible.
Rating: Category 2-Moderate
Elevation change: Moderate
Leader: Linda Shinn: 925-597-0234
Meet: Heart’s Desire Beach
Directions: After crossing the Richmond Bridge, follow US 101 north and take the Lucas Valley Road exit. Drive 10 miles to Nicasio Valley Road and turn right. Drive through Nicasio about three miles to Point Reyes Petaluma Road. Turn left and drive three miles to the stop sign and a painted bridge. Turn right for another three miles to Hwy 1. Turn left and enter Point Reyes Station. After a stop at the Bovine Bakery for coffee and pastries, continue out of town and turn right after the bridge onto Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Follow “the Frank” through Inverness. Just over the ridge, turn right onto Pierce Point Road. The park entrance is on the right after about one mile. Entry fee of $8 is required.
This trip is limited to 15 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 2/20. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Common Mergansers photo by Alyssa Retodo)

MDAS Field Trip -- Orinda Connector Trail
2022-03-30 08:00 - 11:00 | Orinda Connector trail, VQXQ+XR, Orinda, CA, 94563, United States
Orinda Connector Trail
Wednesday, March 30, 8 AM-11 AM
Leader: Don Lewis, 925-284-2906
Meet: Trail head at Camino Pablo and Bear Creek Road
A walk through an EBMUD property requires a trail permit, if you have one bring it with you. We walk downhill to San Pablo Creek, then toward the face of Briones Dam. Wood Ducks are hard to find, but some spring birds have arrived.
Rating: Category 2-Moderate
Elevation change: Moderate
Leader: Don Lewis, 925-284-2906
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 trail head parking is on the right.
This field trip is limited to 10 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 2/20. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Yellow warbler photo by Jerry Britten)

MDAS Field Trip -- North Briones
2022-04-05 08:30 - 12:00 | Briones Regional Park (North), XV37+VX, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
North Briones
Tuesday April 5, 8:30 – Noon
Leader: Cheryl Abel, 925-957-6229
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. Bring liquids & a snack if you wish.
Rating: Category 3 -uphill climb
Elevation change: 300+ feet
Leader: Cheryl Abel, 925-957-6229
Meet: Top of Briones Rd.
Directions: Meet 8:30 AM in the parking area at the north entrance of Briones Regional Park. Take Briones Road off Alhambra Valley Road and drive up this narrow, winding road, park at the end.
The field trip is limited to 12 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 3/27. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Wrentit photo by Jerry Britten)

Monthly Program: April 2022
2022-04-07 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom, CA, United States
Main Program:
Cooperation and conflict in the communal world of the Acorn Woodpecker
Walt Koenig
Acorn Woodpecker, best known for their unique habit of storing acorns by the thousands in special structures known as “granaries”, exhibit one of the most complex social systems of any bird. Family groups of this species, sometimes numbering a dozen or more birds, contain multiple breeders of both sexes, a rare phenomenon called “polygynandry”, along with young from prior years that serve as “helpers-at-the-nest”. Based on a long-term study of this species at Hastings Natural History Reservation in Monterey County, Walt will explain some of the strikingly cooperative and diabolically competitive behaviors of this species that he and his colleagues have discovered during their 50+ year field study.
After studying Acorn Woodpeckers for his Ph.D., Walt Koenig became a Research Zoologist at Hastings Reservation, a field station located in the upper Carmel Valley run by the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology at UC Berkeley, from 1982 to 2008. He subsequently was a Senior Scientist at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in Ithaca, New York, from 2008 to 2016. He retired in 2016 and returned to upper Carmel Valley, where he currently studies acorn production by California oaks, continues to contribute to the Acorn Woodpecker study, and works on perfecting his sparkling wine palate.

Two Acorn Woodpecker females at a communal nest. The bird at the hole is about to feed acorn pieces to the young. Photo by Bruce Lyon

MDAS Field Trip -- Black Diamond Mines
2022-04-12 08:00 - 13:00 | Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, X45P+PP, Antioch, CA, 94565, United States
Black Diamond Mines
Tuesday, April 12, 8 AM to 1 PM
Leader: Hugh Harvey, 925-935-2979
A serious walk up through the Canyon Wren habitat. Other woodland and grassland birds are possible. Tricky footing through the wren’s rocky habitat, and no guarantees on finding it. Some spring flowers may still be in bloom. Bring liquids and lunch.
Rating: Category 3, hot, difficult uphill trail
Elevation change: 600 feet
Leader: Hugh Harvey, 925-935-2979
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 uphill to the last parking lot.
This trip is limited to 15 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 3/27. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waver (available during registration).

MDAS Field Trip -- Pine Canyon
2022-04-19 08:00 - 13:00 | Diablo Foothills Regional Park Trailhead Parking, 1700 Castle Rock Rd, Walnut Creek, 94598
Pine Canyon
Tuesday, April 19, 8 AM to 1 PM
Leader Tracy Farrington, 925-788-6223
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.
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 20 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 3/27. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Townsend’s Warbler photo by Jerry Britten)

MDAS Field Trip -- Del Puerto Canyon
2022-04-25 09:00 - 16:00 | Del Puerto Canyon Rd & Diablo Grande Pkwy, Del Puerto Canyon Rd, Patterson, CA, 95363, United States
Del Puerto Canyon
Monday, April 25, 9 AM to 4 PM
Leader: Beth Branthaver, 510-502-4869

This is an all day trip requiring an early start to meet at the lower end of Del Puerto Canyon Road near Patterson off I-5. We will drive through the canyon, starting in grasslands, then riparian, chaparral and oak savanna habitats. Many spring birds are possible, including Canyon Wren, Costa’s Hummingbird and maybe a Roadrunner. It is usually hot, so bring plenty of liquids and lunch. If you have a radio, that will be handy.
Rating: Category 1–easy
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Beth Branthaver, 510-502-4869
Meet: Del Puerto Canyon Road from Diablo Grande Parkway exit near Patterson
Directions: Go over Altamont Pass and turn south on I-5. Stop at the Larry Combs Rest Area near Westley, as there are no facilities on our trip until our lunch stop. Exit at Diablo Grande Parkway/Sperry Road and turn right. Del Puerto Canyon Road is several hundred yards from the exit; wait around the bend for the group to gather.
This field trip is limited to 20 participants. Register for this HERE starting on 3/27. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Western Kingbird photo by Beth Branthaver)

MDAS Field Trip -- Mitchell Canyon
2022-04-28 08:00 - 13:00 | Mitchell Canyon, 96 Mitchell Canyon Road, Clayton, CA, 94517, United States
Mitchell Canyon
Thursday, April 28, 8 AM to 1 PM
Leader: Sandy Ritchie, 925-685-8048

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 should still be blooming.
Rating: Category 3, hot, dusty trail, 3+ miles
Elevation change: up to 400 feet
Leader: Sandy Ritchie, 925-685-8048
Meet: Mitchell Canyon parking lot
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.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 3/27. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Wilson’s Warbler photo by Jerry Britten)

MDAS Field Trip -- East Contra Costa County
2022-04-30 07:00 - 13:00 | Marsh Creek Regional Trail Trailhead, X8R3+9H, Oakley, CA, 94561, United States
East Contra Costa County
Saturday, April 30, 7 AM to 1 PM
Leader: Randy Huey, 925-518-8439
This is a trip which often can be very hot by the finish. 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
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. Register for this event HERE. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).

MDAS/SMD Field Trip—Curry Canyon
2022-05-05 07:30 - 11:30 | Curry Canyon Ranch
Mount Diablo Audubon Society and Save Mount Diablo are partnering up for a hike on Save Mount Diablo’s gorgeous Curry Canyon Ranch. This portion of Curry Canyon Ranch showcases beautiful rangeland ecosystems and valley oak and riparian habitat. We’ll be looking for spring migrants (Warblers and Western Tanager), Bullock’s Oriole, and possible nesting Warbling and Cassin’s Vireos. You might even see a golden eagle or two! This is a chance to get to know the east side of Mount Diablo, a side that’s not normally open to the public. You’ll pass a beautiful valley with rolling hills as you walk along the creek, then transition into riparian habitat, where sun hardly breaks through the canopy of the trees.
Be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy boots or shoes; bring a mask, plenty of water, binoculars (if you have them) sunscreen, and a snack.
Participants will be required to accept our COVID-19 Protocol (available during registration)
Land: Save Mount Diablo
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 4-5 miles
Elevation change: 200’
Leader: Jerry Britten, Save Mount Diablo Hike Leader
Meet: Address Provided After Registration

Register for this field trip HERE, beginning March 5th at 10am. This field trip is limited to 20 participants.
Photo: Western Tanager by Jerry Britten

Monthly Program: May 2022
2022-05-05 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom, CA, United States
Main Program:
Soundscapes to Landscapes
Dr. Leo Salas and David Leland
The earth’s biodiversity and associated ecosystem services are in a severe state of decline due to human pressure, however, our knowledge of these changes and impacts is often incomplete and limited to few and small areas. Join us to learn how Soundscapes to Landscapes is using a combination of multiple technologies and the power of citizen/community scientists to fill this data gap – starting with a focus on Sonoma County bird diversity. Soundscapes to Landscapes (S2L) is a science-based project that seeks to advance the monitoring of animal biodiversity across large areas using audio recorders, Earth-observing sensors, and Artificial Intelligence. In this special presentation, we will hear from two of the Soundscapes to Landscapes team members about their innovative approach and some of their findings thus far.
Dr. Leo Salas is a Quantitative Ecologist in the Ecoinformatics and Climate Solutions group at Point Blue Conservation Science. Originally from Venezuela, he obtained his MSc in Wildlife Conservation and PhD in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He has worked with a variety of organisms and ecosystems, and specializes in novel data analysis methods, and modeling biological systems at large spatial and temporal scales, including future climate scenarios. David Leland is a member of Madrone Audubon, National Audubon, and Redwood Regional Ornithological Society. He has been on the S2L team since 2017, participating in community outreach, field placement of recorders, analysis of recordings to identify bird species present, and development of models for individual species of interest. In addition, he is also working with his Sonoma County community on ways to reduce carbon emissions.
David Leland
Dr. Leo Salas

MDAS Field Trip -- West Briones Regional Park
2022-05-09 08:00 - 13:00 | Bear Creek Staging Area Briones, Bear Creek Staging Area, 16 Bear Creek Rd, Lafayette, CA, 94549, United States
West Briones Regional Park
Monday, May 9, 8 AM to 1 PM
Leader: Mike Marchiano, 925-372-6328
A visit to the west entrance of Briones Regional Park in the spring offers views of spring wildflowers and spring birds. Lazuli Buntings are usually present, often the first viewings of the year for most of us.
Bring water and snacks.
Rating: Category 2–moderate hiking
Elevation change: 200 feet
Leader: Mike Marchiano, 925-372-6328
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. Register for this event HERE starting on 4/24. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Lazuli Bunting photo by Beth Branthaver)

Monthly Program: June 2022
2022-06-02 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Birding Information: Local Birds from MDAS Photo Contests
Krista Vossekuil, MDAS Education Chair
Krista Vossekuil will share some of the photos from the MDAS Photo Contests! Check out all the amazing entries and enjoy pictures of some of our incredible local birds.
Bullock’s Orioles, Morgan Territory, photo by Jerry Britten
Main Program:
Emperors of the Ice: Ecology and physiology of an iconic Antarctic predator, the emperor penguin
Dr. Gitte McDonald
Emperor penguins are the largest species of marine bird, and perhaps because of its size, it is able to fast longer, dive deeper, and endure harsher conditions than any other avian species. As a top predator in the Antarctic ecosystem, they have a significant top-down effect on prey. Additionally, as top predators, their survival and reproduction depends on the functioning of the entire food web.
Join Gitte McDonald as she talks about her research expeditions to the Ross Sea to study the ecology and physiology of emperor penguins. She will start off with an introduction on basic biology and ecology of emperor penguins before talking about current research on the behavioral and physiological adaptations that allow them to thrive in the Antarctic ecosystem. The talk will conclude with a discussion of current and future challenges.
As a physiological and behavioral ecologist, Dr. Gitte McDonald investigates adaptations that allow animals to survive in extreme environments. Marine mammals and birds provide an ideal study system to investigate how animals deal with extreme conditions because of their large size variation, geographic distribution and physiological challenges they face on a daily basis including hypoxia, extreme temperatures, and fasting. Understanding the mechanisms that allow an organism to interact and survive in its environment is crucial for predicting, and potentially mitigating, their response to climate change. Her research has provided opportunities to work with a broad range of species in a diversity of habitats from the Antarctic to the Galapagos.

Gitte McDonald, photo by Greg Marshall

MDAS Field Trip -- Outer Point Reyes
2022-06-04 08:30 - 15:00 | Bear Valley Visitor Center, 25RX+CV, Inverness, CA, 94956, United States
Outer Point Reyes
Saturday, June 4, 8:30 AM to 3 PM
Leaders: Hugh Harvey and Beth Branthaver
This is a trip to see some spring birds, and visit some of the migrant traps. We will stop at the lighthouse overlook and spend some time above the fish docks. Bring water and lunch.
Rating: Category 1 — some walking through grass under trees and on paved roads
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Hugh Harvey, 925-935-2979, Beth Branthaver, 510-502-4860
Meet: Bear Valley Visitor Center, Olema
Directions: From US 101 north of San Rafael, take Lucas Valley Road to Nicasio, at the reservoir turn left. Follow signs to Point Reyes Station, stop for coffee and pastries at the Bovine Bakery, then drive to Olema and the Visitor Center. From the Concord/Pleasant Hill area it may be advantageous to cross the top of the Bay on SR 37, exit at Atherton Avenue, turn left and cross US 101 to San Marin Drive. Turn right at the high school and drive about 6 miles to stop sign, turn left on Point Reyes-Petaluma Road for 7 miles to another stop sign. Turn right at the painted bridge, drive 3 miles to SR 1 and turn left into Point Reyes Station.
This field trip is limited to 10 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 5/22. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Western bluebird photo by Jerry Britten)

MDAS Field Trip -- Yuba Pass (2-day outing)
2022-06-11 07:00 - 2022-06-12 13:00 | Yuba Pass, Yuba Pass, Yuba Pass Road, Calpine, CA, 96124, United States
Yuba Pass
Saturday-Sunday, June 11-12, 7 AM Saturday to 1 PM Sunday
Leaders: Hugh and Rosita Harvey
This is always a productive and well-favored weekend trip to the northern Sierra which requires driving and walking, some of it over rough terrain. Saturday we will bird in the Sierra Valley for basin birds. Sunday we will be birding in the Yuba Pass area for mountain birds.
Rating: Category 2–Walking at high elevation
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Hugh and Rosita Harvey, 925-935-2979
Meet: Yuba Pass parking lot at top of Hwy 49
Directions: Yuba Pass is located at 6700 feet of elevation and a popular place to see many species of California’s mountain birds. It is north of Truckee on Hwy 49, between Sierraville and Sierra City. Saturday we will bird around the Sierra Valley, Sunday we will be in the mountains.
Campgrounds are closed except for possibly Sardine Lake. Hotels are: Sierra PInes Resort (530-862-1151), this is the largest accommodation in Sierra City; The Buttes Resort (530-862-1170); Bassetts Station (530-862-1297); Yuba River Inn (530-862-1122). Best to make reservations early.
This field trip will be limited to 15 participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 4/24. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Cassin’s Finch photo by Jerry Britten)

13th Annual Martinez Beaver Festival
2022-06-25 11:00 - 16:00 | Susana Park, Estudillo St. & Susana St., Martinez, CA, 94553
Come show your support for urban beavers and visit the Mt. Diablo Audubon Society booth and other favorite nature organizations at the 13th annual Martinez Beaver Festival.

MDAS Field Trip -- Bodega Bay
2022-08-20 09:00 - 15:00 | Tides Restaurant Bodega Bay, 835Bay Highway, Bodega Bay, CA, 94923, United States
Bodega Bay
Saturday, August 20, 9 AM to 3 PM
Leader: Hugh Harvey, 925-935-2979

The last trip of our field trip calendar, but sometimes considered the first trip for fall birding. At Bodega Bay are flocks of shorebirds including Black Oystercatcher, Wandering Tattler, Marbled Godwit, as well as tern, gulls, cormorants, near-shore pelagics and more. Bring liquids, lunch and sunscreen.
Rating: Category 1–moderate walking
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Hugh Harvey, 925-935-2979
Meet: The Tides Restaurant
Directions: From Concord/Pleasant Hill, take I-680 across the Benicia Bridge, go west on I-780 to Vallejo, then I-80 toward Sacramento. Exit to SR 37, then drive about 15 miles to Lakeville Road. In Petaluma, tur left on E. Washington Street and continue on bodega Road, Valley Ford Road and SR 1 to Bodega Bay. Walk through or around The Tides Restaurant to find the group. Bring lunch, liquids and sunscreen.
This field trip is not limited to participants. Register for this event HERE starting on 5/22. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).

MDAS Field Trip — Jewel Lake
2022-09-01 07:30 - 11:30 | Jewel Lake, Tilden Nature Area, California, 600 Canon Dr, Berkeley, CA 94708, Berkeley, CA, 94708, United States
Jewel Lake, Tilden Nature Area, Berkeley
Thursday September 1, 7:30am – 11:30am
A short walk along Wildcat Creek and around Jewel Lake in Tilden Park. Possible highlights include fall warblers, Red-breasted and Pygmy Nuthatch, Pacific Wren, and maybe an early Varied Thrush.
Hike Rating: Category 1 – Easy
Elevation change: slight
Leader: Matt Tarlach, 925-482-6129
Meet: Parking lot at Tilden Nature Area
GPS: 37.908534, -122.264268
Directions: Highway 24 to Fish Ranch Road.
Go up the hill 0.7mi and turn Right on Grizzly Peak Blvd.
Follow Grizzly Peak for 4.1mi; turn Right on Muir in 100 yards turn Left on Park Hills.
Watch for signs to “Little Farm” which is near the meeting point.
Continue 0.3 miles, then turn Left on Central Park Rd.
Continue about 1 mile to the meeting point.
This hike is limited to 20 participants. Register for this event HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/392114463917
All field trips require registration and may have a limit on the total number of participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Wilson’s Warbler photo by Maren Smith)

Monthly Program: September 2022
2022-09-01 19:00 - 21:00 | Lakeside Room of the Heather Farm Community Center at Heather Farm, 301 N. San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Birding Information: Eagle Scout Nest Box Projects
Georgette Howington, Nest box monitor for the California Bluebird Recovery Program
Georgette Howington will introduce several Eagle Scouts who completed Nest Box and other projects to help birds and wildlife in our community. Be inspired by their hard work and ingenuity!
Main Program:
A Gallop Through the Galapagos
Wayne Narr
The Galapagos Islands sit in isolation more than 1000 km west of northern South America. This small, remote archipelago has had a strong impact on us as observers of nature. Its fauna provided a key to our understanding of biological evolution thanks to the islands’ isolation and the efforts of many scientists, including Charles Darwin during his visit on the HMS Beagle. Wayne Narr will review the tectonics that shaped the island’s presence and briefly discuss how the geology set the stage for our understanding of organic evolution. Then we will discuss Mr. Darwin. Finally, we’ll enjoy many images that show the splendor of some of the engaging and lovely animals (mainly birds) that comprise the Galapagos Island’s ecosystem and the beautiful landscapes they inhabit. The animals really do tolerate close encounters with humans.
Wayne Narr is a photography enthusiast, a novice bird-watcher, and a geologist with PhD, MS, and BS degrees in geology. He retired from a long career with Chevron where he did oil exploration, geological research, and technical consulting. He lives with his wife, Sandy – a retired elementary school teacher – in Danville, where they’ve been members of MDAS for five years.

Cactus on basalt, photo by Wayne Narr

Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge
2022-09-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge, 2683+CH, Antioch, CA
Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge–Docent-led public tour
Saturday, September 10, 10 AM to 11 AM
MDAS Coordinator: Hugh Harvey

Antioch Dunes is the only unit of the National Wildlife Refuge system in Contra Costa County. It was set aside for two plants and a butterfly; Contra Costa Wallflower, Antioch Dunes Evening Primrose and Lang’s Metalmark Butterfly. The refuge is in two properties. The second Saturday of every month a docent leads the public around the Stamm Unit.
Learn history of the refuge, see some of the biology and walk on access roads around the dunes during a one-hour walk, sometimes a little longer.
Rating: Category 2–walking on dirt/sandy roads in warm weather, no shade
Elevation change: N/A
MDAS Coordinator: Hugh Harvey, 925-935-2979
Meet: Antioch Dunes gate, Fulton Shipyard Road
Directions: From CA 4 exit at A Street in Antioch, drive north about a mile to Wilbur Avenue, then turn right. Drive about 1/2 mile and turn left onto Fulton Shipyard Road. Cross the railroad tracks and look for the gate on the right. Bring water.
No registration necessary, and no limit on participants. For more info, visit https://www.fws.gov/refuge/antioch-dunes.

MDAS Field Trip — Vaux's Swifts at McNear Brickyard
2022-09-15 17:00 | McNear Brickyard, 1 McNear Brickyard Rd., San Rafael, CA, 94901
Vaux’s Swifts at McNear Brickyard
Thursday, September 15, 5 PM to dark
Leader: Hugh and Rosita Harvey, 925-935-2979
Every fall when Vaux’s Swifts fly to Central and northern South America, they pass through the Bay Area and take advantage of chimneys for evening roosts. Two well-known locations are in Healdsburg and San Rafael. Due to its proximity, the MDAS trip this year will visit McNear Brickyard in San Rafael. This is our first trip to this site. We may easily see more than 10,000 swifts enter a tall brick chimney.
Rating: Category 1 — short walk and sitting
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Hugh and Rosita Harvey, 925-935-2979
Meet: McNear Brickyard in San Rafael
Directions: Drive to San Rafael and exit Hwy 101 at 3rd Street near the downtown area when driving north–4th street when driving south. Turn east onto 3rd Street which becomes Point San Pedro Road. Drive about 5-1/2 miles and look for the entry road to McNear Brickyard. Turn right and park on the side of the road before the closed gate.
We shall arrive while it is still light, then watch the Swifts circle before they enter the chimney. Bring a lawn chair and take-out dinner. We shall eat while waiting for the big show. Call leaders for exact details.
This field trip is limited to 13 participants. Register for this event HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/401539735157/
Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).
(Vaux’s Swifts photo by Maren Smith)

MDAS Field Trip — Frank’s Dump
2022-09-17 14:30 - 17:30 | Hayward Regional Shoreline, 3010 W. Winton Ave, Hayward, CA, 94545, United States
Hayward Regional Shoreline – Frank’s Dump
Saturday September 17, 2:30pm – 5:30pm
We will meet at the very end of Winton Ave, walk out to the Bay Trail and head north. We should arrive at Frank’s Dump – a major high tide roost for shorebirds – when the tide has been coming in for about 4 hours, and with the afternoon sun at our backs for good viewing. We’ll walk about 3 miles on flat, unpaved trails.
Birders of all levels welcome!
Hike Rating: Category 2 – Easy paths, with 3 miles round trip distance
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Maureen Lahiff, 510-484-6529
Meet: Hayward Regional Shoreline, parking lot at end of Winton Ave.
https://goo.gl/maps/HLVbFgiD6nKHW1Bj9
Directions: From I-880, take exit 28 for Winton Avenue and drive west all the way to the end of Winton and into the Hayward Shoreline area. At the EB Parks sign at the end of the road, turn to the right to the parking area near the restroom and the gate across the trail. (If that lot is full, drive back to park along the road.)
Bring water and snacks. There is no shade on the trail, so bring appropriate clothing and sunscreen. There is a pit toilet at the Winton Ave lot.
This hike is limited to 25 participants. Register for this event HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/392821057357
All field trips require registration and may have a limit on the total number of participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).

MDAS Field Trip — Birding by Bike at Clifton Court Forebay
2022-09-24 07:30 - 13:30 | Clifton Court Forebay, Clifton Court Rd., Discovery Bay, CA, 94505
Birding by Bike at Clifton Court Forebay
Saturday September 24, 2022, 7:30am-1:30pm
Have a bicycle, e-bike or scooter, and like to bird? Join MDAS 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. Participant must be able to transport their own
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. Bring layers, sunscreen, water and a snack or lunch for when we get back to the cars.
Hike Rating: N/A. Bicycle/scooter trip
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Jerry Britten
Meet: Parking lot at the end of Clifton Court Road
GPS: 37.8378308046695, -121.59322207166935
Directions: From highway J4 approximately 2 miles southeast of Byron, turn left on Clifton Court road and drive out to the end.
This trip is limited to 15 participants. Register for this event HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-by-bike-at-clifton-court-forebay-tickets-401666444147
(Photo by Jerry Britten)

MDAS Field Trip — Outer Point Reyes
2022-10-01 08:30 - 13:30 | Bear Valley Visitor Center, 25RX+CV, Inverness, CA, 94956, United States
Outer Point Reyes, Marin coast
Saturday October 1, 8:30am – 1pm
The Outer Point Reyes area is a wonderful place to find fall migrants, many of them Eastern passerine vagrants. Warblers spotted here have included Blackburnian, Blackpoll, Chestnut-sided, Connecticut, Black-and-white, Magnolia, Prothonotary, Yellow-throated, and Black-throated Blue. We have seen Yellow-green, Red-eyed and White-eyed Vireos, Orchard Orioles, Ovenbirds, American Redstarts, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Peregrine Falcons, and Broad-winged Hawks. In the water we usually have Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Cormorants, and Loons. The chance to see migrants is very much dependent on the weather; the absence of winds from the northwest and an overcast night sky will help trap these land birds at the Outer Point.
Meet at 8:30 am at Bear Valley Visitor Center in Olema. Weather is unpredictable, bring layers and be prepared for damp wind. Gale cancels. Bring lunch and liquids.
Hike Rating: Category 2 – Moderate
Elevation change: Minor
Leader: Matt Tarlach (925-482-6129), Tracy Farrington
Meet: Bear Valley Visitor Center, Olema
GPS: 38.04015134873366, -122.79957253617275
Directions: After crossing the San Rafael Bridge, go north on 101 to Lucas Valley Road. Drive toward Nicasio.
After passing the town, turn left on Point Reyes-Petaluma Road for 3 miles to another stop sign.
Turn right across the bridge, go 3 miles to SR 1.
Turn left into Point Reyes Station. Some enjoy stopping at the Bovine Bakery for coffee and pastries.
Continue out of town towards Olema, then turn right onto Bear Valley Road. The Visitor Center is off Bear Valley.
This hike is limited to 15 participants. Register for this event HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/outer-point-reyes-tickets-401672642687
All field trips require registration and may have a limit on the total number of participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).

MDAS Field Trip — Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary
2022-10-05 09:00 - 13:00 | Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary, Shore Line Drive, Broadway, Alameda, CA, 94501, United States
Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary, Alameda
Wednesday October 5, 9am – 1pm

A visit to the Alameda shoreline as the tide rises should produce good views of shorebirds. A viewing platform and trails will give us excellent opportunities to study these birds at close range. We may drive to other nearby locations for additional birding.
Hike Rating: Category 1 – Easy
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Hugh Harvey, (925) 935-2979
Meet: Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary, Broadway and Shoreline, Alameda, CA 94501
GPS: 37.753096130035445, -122.24728246225817
Directions: From Hwy 880 take exit 39A.
After exiting, turn right on Fruitvale Ave.
Take Fruitvale over the bridge into Alameda
Turn left on Broadway, and continue through Alameda to Shore Line Drive. Consider parking along Broadway just before the intersection.
Meet at the observation deck off of Shore Line Drive.
This trip is limited to 15 participants. Register for this event HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elsie-roemer-bird-sanctuary-tickets-392120090747
All field trips require registration and may have a limit on the total number of participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration).

(Long-billed Curlew photo by Rosita Harvey)

Monthly Program: October 2022
2022-10-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Zoom, CA, United States
Birding Information: MDAS President Jerry Britten will present highlights of his summer Alaskan birding trip to the High Arctic Tundra and the Anchorage area.
Main Program:
Gardening for Birds with California Native Plants
Eddie Bartley and Noreen Weeden
You can have a beautiful native plant garden that attracts amazing birds, butterflies and other wildlife. Learn about the benefits of local, native plants and some of the wonderful birds that are drawn to this place and to these plants. We will discuss what migrating and resident birds need and how to provide what the birds are seeking.
While there are hundreds of bird species that have been observed in Contra Costa County, learn which native plants attract which bird species and why they are attracted to them. This presentation will cover what to think about in designing your backyard and when to plant. This will inspire you to have an awesome variety of native plants for birds. Golden Gate Audubon and the California Native Plant Society have partnered on Plants for Birds which promotes several local native plants that attract local birds and are available at local nurseries. The Plants for Birds program is all about local and each year more plants are added so that you can grow your garden while increasing biodiversity.
Eddie Bartley and Noreen Weeden are both active volunteers with the Golden Gate Audubon Society, California Native Plant Society (CNPS), and with the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory.
Eddie is President of the Yerba Buena chapter of CNPS and the Farallones Islands Foundation. He is an avian researcher and instructor for the California Academy of Sciences and Golden Gate Audubon. Noreen Weeden was formerly Volunteer Director with Golden Gate Audubon and managed a habitat restoration project. She is on the board of Yerba Buena CNPS. Both Eddie and Noreen regularly lead natural history field trips. They can often be found in California’s natural areas birding, removing weeds and tending native plants.

Lazuli Bunting, photo by Eddie Bartley and Noreen Weeden
Webinar Access Info:

Date:
Oct 6, 2022 7:00 PM Pacific Time

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

Location:
Zoom online meeting

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852 3019 7486

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MDAS/SMD Field Trip—Curry Canyon
2022-10-08 08:00 - 12:00 | Curry Canyon Ranch
Mount Diablo Audubon Society and Save Mount Diablo are partnering up for a hike on Save Mount Diablo’s gorgeous Curry Canyon Ranch. This portion of Curry Canyon Ranch showcases beautiful rangeland ecosystems and valley oak and riparian habitat. We’ll be looking for fall migrants, arriving wintering birds, and raptors. You might even see a golden eagle or two! This is a chance to get to know the east side of Mount Diablo, a side that’s not normally open to the public. You’ll pass a beautiful valley with rolling hills as you walk along the creek, then transition into riparian habitat, where sun hardly breaks through the canopy of the trees.
Be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy boots or shoes; bring a mask, plenty of water, binoculars (if you have them) sunscreen, and a snack.
Land: Save Mount Diablo
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 4-5 miles
Elevation change: 200’
Leader: Jerry Britten, Save Mount Diablo Hike Leader
Meet: Address Provided After Registration
Register for this field trip HERE, beginning August 8th at 10am. This field trip is limited to 20 participants.
Photo: Hermit Thrush by Jerry Britten

MDAS Field Trip — Five Brooks & Bear Valley
2022-10-15 09:00 - 13:00 | Five Brooks Trailhead, 8001 California 1, Bolinas, CA, 94924, United States
Five Brooks/Bear Valley, West Marin County
Saturday October 15, 9:00am – 1pm

This trip visits two inland areas near Point Reyes, environments of trees and meadows that are miles from the windswept dunes. Five Brooks is a reliable location for California Quail. All sorts of interesting birds show up around the pond at Five Brooks: Wood Ducks, Wilson’s Snipe, a Merlin hawking dragonflies. Some years there are good numbers of Varied Thrush at Bear Valley.Weather is unpredictable, so dress in layers. Bring water and trail snacks.
Hike Rating: Category 2 – Moderate. Walking on mostly level trails, about a mile at each site.
Elevation change: Minor
Leader: Maureen Lahiff, 510.484.6529, MLahiff@aol.com
Meet: Five Brooks Trailhead, which is about 4 miles south of the intersection of Sir Francis Drake Blvd and California Highway 1 in Olema.
GPS: 37.9974, -122.7579

This hike is limited to 20 participants. All field trips require registration and may have a limit on the total number of participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDAS Liability Waiver (available during registration). Register for this event HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/five-brooks-bear-valley-tickets-419665329297
Directions: After crossing the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, take Hwy 101 north to Lucas Valley Road. Take Lucas Valley Road west about 10 miles until it ends at Nicasio Valley Road. Turn right, go through Nicasio, and turn left at the T-intersection with Point Reyes-Petaluma Road. In about 3 miles, you will come to the intersection with the gaily painted Platform Bridge. Continue straight; when the road ends at Sir Francis Drake Blvd, turn right. At the flashing stop light in Olema, turn left on Hwy 1. In about 4 miles, turn right on the gravel road to Five Brooks Trailhead. Drive all the way to the end, curving around to the right. (This route is about 5 miles longer than taking Sir Francis Drake all the way, but can actually take less time.)

There are park-style pit toilets at Five Brooks and full-service restrooms at Bear Valley Visitor Center, about 5 miles away.
(Varied Thrush photo by Isaac Aronow)
