Bobcat Ranch at Night ©Matt Allshouse
Trip Leaders: Matt Allshouse, Autumn Turner, Kelli O’Neill – TRIP IS FULL
Description:
Take part in this limited opportunity to explore Audubon California’s Bobcat Ranch near Winters for a special evening owling field trip. Bobcat Ranch is a 6,800-acre working ranch that uses regenerative grazing management to restore and manage natural diversity in grassland and oak woodlands. It is Audubon California’s largest landholding and is the first certified Ranch in California under Audubon’s Conservation Ranching Program. To aid in monitoring the outcomes of sustainable grazing practices, YBA volunteers have conducted biweekly bird surveys on the Ranch as part of an ongoing phenology study since 2016.
Join Yolo Bird Alliance volunteers Kelli and Autumn, and ranch manager Matt Allshouse for this crepuscular owling outing. Leaders will guide participants on a short walk around the headquarters for sunset birding, and proceed to other owling locations on the Ranch via short walk/vehicle.
Accessibility:
Please note that the terrain may be rocky and muddy and will include trip hazards, especially with limited visibility at night. A port-a-potty will be available at headquarters. Cell phone service is limited at the Ranch.
Meeting Location and Registration:
Please prepare for the weather and cold, muddy conditions by bringing water (hot beverages and thermoses recommended!) and snacks, wearing sturdy, water resistant/proof close-toed shoes, and dressing in layers. Headlamps are also recommended. This trip may be rescheduled in the event of rain. Bring your binoculars and cameras for the sunset birding portion.
We have special permission to lead the group on Bobcat Ranch, which has limited public access. Maximum number of participants is 12. Participants will need to sign an online Audubon liability waiver prior to entering the Ranch in addition to the YBA field trip waiver. Participants will rendezvous in Davis and carpool/caravan in trip leader vehicles to the property.
Please contact Yolo Bird Alliance Field Trip Coordinator Zane Pickus with any questions or to sign up at yolobirdalliance@gmail.com.
Yolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public.