BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Yolo Bird Alliance - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Yolo Bird Alliance X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Yolo Bird Alliance REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20220313T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20221106T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20230312T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20231105T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20240310T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20241103T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20250309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20251102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230507T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230507T073000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20230415T210523Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230415T210524Z UID:6154-1683444600-1683444600@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Putah Creek at Kusch Home DESCRIPTION:Barn Swallow; © Zane Pickus\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nTour Manfred Kusch’s birding gardens between Davis and Winters. He has cultivated his home garden and surrounding area\, which border on Putah Creek\, into a true birding extravaganza. He attracts a wide variety of birds in the gardens and habitat around the house\, especially hummingbirds and orioles. The multi-layered vegetation on either side of the creek hosts spring migrants and residents such as grosbeaks\, tanagers and a variety of warblers and vireos. \n\n\n\nBring binoculars\, scopes\, cameras\, snacks and beverages. High winds or a significant rainstorm cancel this trip. \n\n\n\nSpace is limited; RSVP early. Contact John Hansen to secure your spot (jjhindavis@yahoo.com) URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/putah-creek-at-kusch-home-2/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://yolobirdalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/Barn-Swallow-Zane-Pickus-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230520T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230520T110000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20230514T231200Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230514T231201Z UID:6188-1684566000-1684580400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:South Fork Preserve - Putah Creek DESCRIPTION:Hermit x Townsend’s Warbler; © Konshau Duman\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nJoin us for a morning of late spring migrants and riparian breeders next Saturday\, May 20th\, at the Putah Creek South Fork Preserve parking lot. We will walk the trail west of Mace into Solano County before returning to the Yolo side to walk the South Fork Preserve trails. This area has great valley riparian habitat with a dense mixed canopy of Valley Oak and Oregon Ash with scattered Cottonwood and Willow. The Yolo side will have similar habitat in a narrower strip along with open weedy grassland with Valley Oak and Mulefat plantings.  \n\n\n\nWe can expect to see some later spring migrants like Yellow Warbler\, Swainson’s Thrush\, and Western Wood-Pewee plus riparian breeders like Tree Swallow\, Bewick’s Wren\, House Wren\, California Towhee\, and Spotted Towhee. The number of breeding Spotted Towhees on the Solano side is quite stunning compared to other riparian sites in our area\, and there are abundant cavity nesters on the Yolo Side due to a wealth of natural and artificial cavity nest sites. Swainson’s Hawks will likely be very abundant as well.  \n\n\n\nWe will cover about 1.9 miles of trail\, ~.35 miles (one way) on the Solano side and a ~1.2 mile loop on the Yolo Side. The Yolo side trails are well established dirt trails\, and the Solano side trail is a narrower dirt path with occasional stick and log debris brought in by last winter’s flooding to step around.  \n\n\n\nThis trip will be led by Konshau and Lynette Williams Duman (konshaud@gmail.com\, lynettebarbarawilliams@gmail.com). Feel free to email us with any additional questions regarding the trip or transportation from Davis to the South Fork Preserve.  \n\n\n\nYolo Audubon Society field trips are free and open to the public. Carpooling is strongly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between driver and riders. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/south-fork-preserve-putah-creek/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://yolobirdalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/Duman-Warbler.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230603T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230603T120000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20230504T222132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230511T225816Z UID:6161-1685793600-1685793600@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Sierra Valley/Yuba Pass 2-day Trip DESCRIPTION:Red-breasted Sapsucker; © Kelli O’Neill\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nDo you enjoy mountain birding?  Then this trip is for you. We will explore the birdlife of the Sierras on this two day\, (June 3-4) overnight trip. \n\n\n\nWe will be looking for mountain specialties such as Williamson’s Sapsucker\, Black­-backed Woodpecker\, White-headed Woodpecker\, Red-breasted Sapsucker\, Townsend’s Solitaire\, Brown Creeper\, Golden-crowned Kinglet\, Mountain Bluebird and Calliope Hummingbird. \n\n\n\nWe will also enjoy the wonders of the marsh in Sierra Valley\, with a cacophony of sound led by the amazingly beautiful Yellow-headed Blackbirds.  We will also hope to see and hear displaying Willets\, Wilson’s Snipes and American Bitterns. \n\n\n\nPlease bring plenty of warm clothes and dress in layers.  Bring enough food for breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday. We will have a group dinner on Saturday evening in Portola and we will be spending the night at the Sierra Motel (530-832-4223). \n\n\n\nThis trip is limited to 10 participants\, so please contact our field trip chair\, John Hansen\, to sign up at jjhindavis@yahoo.com. \n\n\n\nTrip is full. \n\n\n\nFor more information\, please contact either Kevin Guse (harpy12@icloud.com) or Mary Schiedt (maryolo1@netscape.net). URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/sierra-valley-yuba-pass-2-day-trip/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://yolobirdalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/Red-Breasted-Sapsucker.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230930T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230930T120000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20230907T150001Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230907T150001Z UID:6285-1696059000-1696075200@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Beginners trip to Putah Creek Riparian Reserve DESCRIPTION:Nuttall’s Woodpecker; © Kelli O’Neill\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you always been interested in birds and want to learn more? This field trip is intended for beginning and inexperienced birders. Several Yolo Audubon members will lead this visit to the Putah Creek Reserve. The Reserve\, on the west edge of the UCD campus\, is an Oak Woodland and Riparian habitat. We will be looking for resident species as well as late fall migrants.  The group may see hawks\, Wood ducks\, Western bluebirds\, woodpeckers\, and various warblers\, among others. Expect a 2-mile walk on fairly level terrain. \nParticipants will meet at the gravel parking lot at the end of Hopkins Road at 7:30 AM.  The trip will end by noon. Bring water and binoculars. The club does have some binoculars for loan.  Rain or strong wind will cancel the trip. No reservations are necessary\, everyone is welcome.   \nMore info: John Hansen\, jjhindavis@yahoo.com URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/beginners-trip-to-putah-creek-riparian-reserve/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231001T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231001T200000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20230913T023739Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230913T024247Z UID:6296-1696143600-1696190400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Point Reyes Field Trip DESCRIPTION:Chestnut-sided Warbler; © Kevin Guse \n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for this is the annual Terry Colborn Memorial trip to Pt. Reyes. Fall migration at Pt. Reyes can be spectacular and makes this area a well-deserved birding hot spot. Depending on the weather\, the numbers and diversity of songbirds passing through the “Outer Point” can be impressive. In addition to the passerines there are usually plenty of raptors\, other migrants\, and several species of mammals to enjoy. \nAll participants are expected to be vaccinated. Masks are not required while out of doors but may be required in vehicles depending on preferences of the driver and passengers. Federal\, state\, and local health guidelines will be followed. \nPlease bring a lunch\, plenty of fluids and dress in layers. Be prepared for cool temperatures\, wind and maybe fog\, though Pt. Reyes can also be warm at this time of year. There will be easy walks and good bird photo opportunities on the trip. \nThis is an all-day trip. Due to safety and liability reasons Yolo Audubon Society will be  limiting this trip to 8 participants and no more than 3 vehicles. For reserving a spot or for any logistics questions please contact rhjanke29@gmail.com.  You must have a reservation to participate in this trip. \nTrip Leader: Kevin Guse \nFor questions related to reservations and trip logistics contact Ryan Janke: rhjanke29@gmail.com URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/point-reyes-field-trip/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231015T063000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231015T173000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20230928T230548Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231006T202754Z UID:6338-1697351400-1697391000@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Bodega Bay Day Trip DESCRIPTION:Red Knot ©Kevin Guse \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou are cordially invited to join us for a trip to one of the crown jewels of Northern California birding\, Bodega Bay.  We will be looking for fall migrant passerines as well as shorebirds\, loons\, grebes\, ducks\, raptors and wading birds. Birders of all skill levels are welcome! There will be short walks on fairly level terrain.  \nThis outing will be limited to 8 people in 3 cars. It will be an all-day trip\, beginning at 6:30 AM. Due to safety and liability reasons Yolo Audubon Society will be limiting this trip to 8 participants and no more than 3 vehicles. For reserving a spot or for any logistics questions please contact rhjanke29@gmail.com.  You must have a reservation to participate in this trip. \nPlease bring a lunch\, sunscreen\, water and layers of clothing. Masks are not required while out of doors but may be required in vehicles depending on preferences of the driver and passengers. Federal\, state\, and local health guidelines will be followed. \nTrip Leader: Kevin Guse \nThere is still room on this popular Yolo Audubon trip.  Contact Ryan below to reserve your spot soon. \nFor reservations contact Ryan Janke: rhjanke29@gmail.com URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/bodega-bay-day-trip-2/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231021T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231021T080000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20230928T231625Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230928T231835Z UID:6342-1697875200-1697875200@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Lake Solano County Park/Putah Creek Trip DESCRIPTION:Yellow-rumped Warbler ©Sharon Kirkpatrick \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn this trip we will visit Lake Solano County Park where Putah Creek runs between Yolo and Solano Counties.  We will be looking for resident species as well as those that come to spend the winter in the area.  The oak woodland\, riparian habitat and creek can result in bird sightings that include Osprey\, Phainopepla\, Wood Duck and hopefully several species of woodpeckers. There could be some surprises like Pileated Woodpecker\, Red-breasted Sapsucker and Bald Eagle. \nMeet at 8:00 AM at Lake Solano County Park day-use parking lot\, on Pleasants Valley Road.  There is a $6 fee per vehicle for parking.   All trip participants should be vaccinated.  Federal\, state\, and local health guidelines will be followed.  Trip will conclude early afternoon.  Bring water\, binoculars and spotting scopes if you have one.  We will not be stopping for a designated lunch break.  There is some walking on uneven terrain but for the most part it is flat.  Beginning birders are welcome.  Rain and strong wind cancels trip. \nTrip Leader: Sharon Kirkpatrick (530)220-3735 (cell) or sckirkpa@gmail.com URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/lake-solano-county-park-putah-creek-trip/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231028T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231028T100000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20231014T190248Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231014T190248Z UID:6397-1698480000-1698487200@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Ed Whisler Memorial Bird Walk at Davis Cemetery DESCRIPTION:Ed Whistler ©Ken Kemmerling \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYolo Audubon will sponsor a bird walk on Saturday\, October 28\, 2023\, from 8am to 10am\, at the Davis Cemetery in honor of our friend Ed Whisler.  Ed was one of the top birders and wildlife biologists in our area for the past forty years. He was very generous in sharing his vast knowledge with the Davis community.   He was a former president of Yolo Audubon\, co-designer of West Pond and North Ponds\, a conservationist\, activist and educator. The Halloween trip to the Davis Cemetery was led by Ed for many years and is a favorite among Yolo Audubon members.  This walk will retrace Ed’s steps to look for late fall migrants and incoming winter resident birds including warblers\, woodpeckers\, and sparrows. \nTwenty years ago\, in June 2003\, Ed Whisler discovered Western Bluebirds nesting in the old tree at the eastern edge of the Davis Cemetery\, the first time in thirty years that Bluebirds had nested in Davis. It was Ed who first suggested a nest box trail along the greenbelt from Veterans Memorial to North Davis Ponds. With the nest box programs\, nesting Western Bluebirds (and Tree Swallows) are now common in Davis and along Putah Creek. \nEd was also an excellent teacher because he was so in-tuned with birds\, especially their calls. Even during conversations\, he was always aware of birds\, and would interrupt a conversation to point out and identify any of our feathered friends\, who happened to be in the area.  Sadly\, Ed Whisler passed away on July 4\, 2023. His earthly remains were interred in the Davis Cemetery\, alongside his parents. \nAnyone interested in birds is welcome.  The event is free and for all age levels. The cemetery has some uneven ground and wet grass.   Recommended: binoculars. Suggested: water\, hat.  Heavy rain or wind cancels event.  \nOnce you arrive at the Davis Cemetery entrance (820 Pole Line Rd\, Davis\, CA 95618)\, there will be a stone statue which has a few parking spaces adjacent. You can also park along the cemetery road. \nCo-leaders and coordinators are Joshua Greenfield\, Donna Jury and Ken Kemmerling. For logistical questions please contact Ryan Janke: rhjanke29@gmail.com \n  URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/ed-whisler-memorial-bird-walk-at-davis-cemetery/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231105T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231105T150000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20231031T204717Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231031T204717Z UID:6451-1699169400-1699196400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Sparrow Bingo 2023 DESCRIPTION:Fox Sparrow©Zane Pickus \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFall migration is largely over and the winter birds are settling in. Join Bart Wickel and Zane Pickus for a local jaunt around Yolo County. The challenge: to find as many species of sparrows as possible. To further the fun of this trip participants will be able to check sparrows off of a bingo card! As believers in the rule that when you search for one bird\, you discover another\, expect anything on this trip– the sparrows are just the excuse to get out and about. This will also be a good trip to practice birding by ear. Route to be determined as conditions warrant. \nWe’ll meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Marketplace Shopping Center (near Big 5 Sporting Goods\, 1301 W. Covell\, just east of Hwy 113). Bring binoculars\, scopes\, cameras\, snacks\, lunch\, and beverages. High winds or a significant rainstorm cancel this trip. We will return by 3:00pm. \n*Note that Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday\, November 5th at 2:00am.* \nContact trip leader Zane Pickus for more details: zanep987@gmail.com \nYolo Audubon Society field trips are free and open to the public. Car-pooling is encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between driver and riders.” \n  URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/sparrow-bingo-2023/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240127T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240127T170000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20231230T191216Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240122T190813Z UID:6626-1706340600-1706374800@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Raptor Ramble 2024 DESCRIPTION:Merlin©Kevin Guse \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRaptor Ramble \nThe popular trip is full and YAS is no longer taking participants in event.  \nCalifornia’s Central Valley has one of the largest wintering raptor populations in the country. Our goal will be to see how many species of raptors we can find on this annual trip. Highlights of past trips include Ferruginous Hawk\, Rough-legged Hawk\, Golden Eagle\, Peregrine Falcon\, Merlin\, Bald Eagle and Prairie Falcon.Birders of all ages and skill levels are welcome! Please bring binoculars\, a spotting scope if have one\, lunch\, plenty of liquids\, layers of clothes and be prepared for a full day trip. \nThis trip is limited to 15 people on a first-come\, first-serve basis. Please contact Ryan Janke (rhjanke29@gmail.com) to reserve your spot and to receive information on where to meet. \n  \n  \n  URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/raptor-ramble-2024/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240211T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240211T130000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20240115T234140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240115T234843Z UID:6670-1707634800-1707656400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Cosumnes River Preserve 2024 DESCRIPTION:Sandhill Cranes ©Kelli O’Neill \nThe Cosumnes River Preserve has an array of important valley floor bird habitats including wetlands\, floodplains\, agricultural land\, and rare valley oak riparian. Birding at the interface of these habitats provides a unique opportunity to view a diverse list of species with relative ease. We will follow the flat and well-maintained walking trails through these habitats to view woodpeckers\, raptors\, wetland birds\, wintering sparrows\, ducks\, geese\, and shorebirds. We will also bird the agricultural fields along Desmond Road which is renowned for Sandhill Cranes. \nExpect two to three hours of walking in the preserve plus standing for shorebird/aquatic bird viewing. This trip welcomes all levels of birding experience\, especially beginners. Please bring binoculars\, plenty of fluids\, and dress in layers for cooler temperatures expected at this time of year. We expect to finish in the early afternoon. We will not have a planned lunch break\, but if you want to enjoy your lunch at the preserve\, there are picnic tables at the visitor center good birding-while-eating opportunities. Bathrooms available at the visitor center. \nWe will depart at 7:00am from the Park & Ride behind Ikeda’s in Davis. Please arrive beforehand and carpool when possible. Heavy rain cancels the trip. \nTrip Leader: Ryan Janke (rhjanke29@gmail.com) \n\n  \n  URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/cosumnes-river-preserve-2024/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240217T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240217T100000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20240208T004048Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240208T004048Z UID:6722-1708155000-1708164000@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Bridgeway Island Pond Field Trip DESCRIPTION:Blue-winged Teal ©JoAnne Fillatti \nAs winter winds down join us as we bird Bridgeway Island Pond and theDeepwater Ship Channel in West Sacramento. Bridgeway Island Pond isone of the best places in Yolo County to see species such asBlue-winged Teal\, Spotted Sandpiper\, Common Gallinule\, Cinnamon Teal\,and American Avocet. But\, as with everything in life\, you never knowwhat shorebird or waterfowl may be sitting on the muddy spit waitingto be discovered! We will then walk up the levee and scan theDeepwater Ship Channel. Our targets will be water-loving birds such asBald Eagle\, Osprey\, and Western Grebe. A small stand of trees andbushes could yield passerines such as Spotted Towhee\, Orange-crownedWarbler\, and who knows what else!We will meet at 7:30 am at the cul-de-sac at the end of Pender IslandRd in West Sacramento\, here: 38.540733\, -121.577855. Bring binoculars\,a scope (if you have one)\, water\, and snacks. Please note that thereare no restrooms at the pond. We will begin on a level path\, and walkup a graveled levee to reach the ship channel. There will be a smallstretch where the path is quite narrow but still largely level. Highwinds or significant rain will cancel this trip. Beginners arewelcome and no sign-ups are necessary! We will conclude at approximately 10am.Contact trip leaders Lynette Williams Duman and Konshau Duman atlbwilliams@ucdavis.edu and kduman@ucdavis.edu respectively.Yolo Audubon Society field trips are free and open to the public.Carpooling is highly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangementsbetween drivers and riders. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/bridgeway-island-pond-field-trip/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240224T064500 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240224T130000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20240201T232909Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240220T174457Z UID:6688-1708757100-1708779600@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:2024 Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area “Big Sit” DESCRIPTION:Snowy Egret ©Zane Pickus \nTHE EVENT IS CANCELLED AS THE WILDLIFE AREA IS FLOODED. \nJoin the Yolo Audubon Society\, Yolo Basin Foundation\, and the Birdwatching Club at UC Davis for a joint event at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area.  On Saturday\, February 24th\, we will be hosting a “Big Sit!” You may have heard of a “Big Day” or “Big Year\,” where birders attempt to see as many species as possible in a given time frame\, but a Big Sit is different – instead the challenge is to detect as many species as possible while staying in one stationary location. Big Sits are popular elsewhere in the U.S.\, and some additional information about the concept can be found below. For our event\, we will be staking out Parking Lot C at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area\, which will put us right in the middle of excellent marsh habitat – perfect for seeing a great variety of species. Those who attend can expect to see or hear a variety of waterfowl\, rails\, sparrows\, herons\, and shorebirds. It is certain to be a fun day for all involved! \nUnlike many birding field trips\, this event is special in that participants may come and go as they please. Feel free to drop by for a few minutes\, an hour\, or longer! We want this trip to be accessible to as many people as possible\, and hope that everyone interested can come to share in enjoying the birds and the wildlife area. Bring binoculars\, a scope if you have one\, and excitement about birds! Besides our Big Sit area\, the rest of the Yolo Bypass auto tour loop is sure to be full of birds and worth exploring on your own.  \nBirders from Yolo Audubon Society\, Yolo Basin Foundation and the Birdwatching Club at UC Davis will plan to arrive at Parking Lot C at the Yolo Bypass just after sunrise (6:45am) on the morning of February 24th. We will have a table with information on local birds\, the organizations involved\, and extra binoculars to share. No prior birding experience is necessary\, and the area is handicap accessible.  \nAdditionally\, we will keep a running list of species detected throughout the day. The Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area Big Sit will conclude at 1:00pm. \nWinter birding events are always at risk of bad weather. A postponement will occur in the event that the wildlife area is closed due to flooding\, or if heavy rain is projected on the day of the Big Sit. Please check back on the Yolo Audubon Society’s website and facebook page for more details\, or contact Zane Pickus\, zanep987@gmail.com for the latest information.  \nTraditional Big Sit! Information: https://www.thebigsit.org/ \nA map of the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area: https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=99259&inline \n\n  URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/2024-yolo-bypass-wildlife-area-big-sit/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240427T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240427T080000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20240418T134632Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240418T164143Z UID:6800-1714204800-1714204800@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Putah Creek at Kusch Home DESCRIPTION:Hooded Oriole ©Manfred Kusch \nTour Manfred Kusch’s birding gardens between Davis and Winters. He has cultivated his home garden and surrounding area\, which border on Putah Creek\, into a true birding extravaganza. He attracts a wide variety of birds in the gardens and habitat around the house\, especially hummingbirds and orioles. The multi-layered vegetation on either side of the creek hosts spring migrants and residents such as grosbeaks\, tanagers and a variety of warblers and vireos. \nBring binoculars\, scopes\, cameras\, snacks and beverages. High winds or a significant rainstorm cancel this trip. \nSpace is limited; RSVP early. Contact Ryan Janke to secure your spot (rhjanke29@gmail.com) URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/putah-creek-at-kusch-home-3/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240504T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240504T210000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20240409T190255Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240409T190255Z UID:6795-1714845600-1714856400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Capay Open Space Park - Lesser Nighthawks DESCRIPTION:Lesser Nighthawk ©Zane Pickus \nNighthawks are a family of cryptically colored\, primarily nocturnal bird species that are a favorite of many birders. Cache Creek is the summer home of the Lesser Nighthawk\, which winters in Central and South America before returning to California’s Central Valley to breed. Lesser Nighthawks primarily feed on insects under the cover of darkness\, but in the spring they routinely engage in dusk courtship rituals. Capay Open Space Park is the perfect place to observe nighthawks as they chase each other in acrobatic flights and sing their eerie trilled songs. \nYou can learn more about Lesser Nighthawks and listen to their song here:https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Lesser_Nighthawk/overview \nJoin Zane Pickus and Frank Fabbro in a dusk birding trip to Capay Open Space Park. While this trip will be focused on the nighthawks\, there should be plenty of other birds to see. California Thrashers\, though inconspicuous\, nest here. Western Meadowlarks\, California Quail\, and a variety of swallows will be abundant. Given the date\, we could encounter a neotropical migrant or two! \nWe’ll meet at 6:00pm at the Marketplace Shopping Center (near Big 5 Sporting Goods\, 1301 W. Covell\, just east of Hwy 113). We will plan to bird until dark\, and should return to Davis between 8:30pm and 9:00pm. Bring binoculars\, cameras\, snacks\, and water. The trip will include a short walk along the gravel creekbed. High winds or a significant rainstorm will cancel the trip. \nYolo Audubon Society field trips are free and open to the public. Carpooling is strongly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between driver and riders. \nContact Zane for more details. zanep987@gmail.com \n\n  URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/capay-open-space-park-lesser-nighthawks-2/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240518T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240518T120000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20240514T210434Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240514T212246Z UID:6869-1716021000-1716033600@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Bobcat Ranch - Birds and Wildflower Tour DESCRIPTION:Bullock’s Oriole ©Kelli O’Neill \nJoin Yolo Audubon Society for birds and wildflower tour of Bobcat Ranch. This sprawling blue oak woodland property sits in the hills of the coastal range just north of Berryessa Gap. The hills are green\, flowers are blooming\, and we should have some spring migrants showing up. Bobcat Ranch is great for spotting woodpeckers\, raptors\, and the occasional resident bald eagle as well as lupine\, blue dicks\, and a variety of other wildflowers. We will also visit one of the largest native milkweed stands in the area. \nThis trip will involve moderate-strenuous hiking with portions of sustained uphill on uneven\, unpaved surfaces. We will hike a loop approximately 2 miles long and gain about 300-400 feet in elevation. Bring binoculars\, plenty of water\, snacks\, hiking poles if needed\, and sturdy hiking shoes. Dress in layers as it can be cool in the early morning and warm in the late morning. \nWe’ll meet at 8:30 a.m. and aim to return to Davis by noon. Location and further details will be provided to those who have reserved a spot on the trip. \nThis trip has limited space. Please reserve a spot by emailing Ryan Janke (rhjanke29@gmail.com). \n  \n\n  URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/bobcat-ranch-birds-and-wildflower-tour/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240922T060000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240922T060000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20240906T214117Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240906T233903Z UID:7059-1726984800-1726984800@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Point Reyes - Annual Terry Colborn Memorial Trip DESCRIPTION:Chestnut-sided Warbler ©Kevin Guse \nThis is the annual Terry Colborn Memorial trip to Pt. Reyes. Fall migration at Pt. Reyes can be spectacular and makes this area a well-deserved birding hot spot. Depending on the weather\, the numbers and diversity of songbirds passing through the “Outer Point” can be impressive. In addition to the passerines there are usually plenty of raptors\, other migrants\, and several species of mammals to enjoy. \nThis is an all-day trip limited to 3 vehicles and no more than 10 participants. To attend please contact rhjanke29@gmail.com to reserve a spot on a first-come\, first-serve basis. \nPlease bring a lunch\, plenty of fluids and dress in layers. Be prepared for cool temperatures\, wind and maybe fog\, though Pt. Reyes can also be warm at this time of year. There will be easy walks and good bird photo opportunities on the trip. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation. \nTrip Leader: Kevin Guse \nFor reservations contact Ryan Janke: rhjanke29@gmail.com \n  \n  \n\n  URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/point-reyes-annual-terry-colborn-memorial-trip/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241026T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241026T110000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20241008T150627Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241009T005733Z UID:7147-1729929600-1729940400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Birdability Trip to Lake Solano County Park DESCRIPTION:Phainopepla ©Zane Pickus \nBirdability Week is a celebration of birding and inclusivity put on by the National Audubon Society. On Saturday\, October 26th\, join Yolo Bird Alliance for its own celebration of Birdability Week at Lake Solano County Park. This location is known to birders far and wide for its impressive diversity of bird species\, all of which can be viewed from the many paved\, flat paths which meander through the park. It is an excellent place to spend a morning\, and on this day we will come together to share the joy of birdwatching at our own pace. Once at the park\, we will take a few relaxing walks and observe the birds and nature around us. Everyone is welcome! \nParticipants may expect to see charismatic species such as Common Merganser\, Oak Titmouse\, White-breasted Nuthatch\, and Acorn Woodpecker. If we’re lucky\, perhaps a Phainopepla or Osprey will stop by. No matter what we see\, it is certain to be a good time and is an opportunity to ensure birding is accessible to all. This trip is open to everyone whether mobility impaired or not. \nBring snacks\, water\, and binoculars or a camera if you have them. All walking will be on paved\, even terrain\, and walking distances short. The group will return to its meeting location in Davis around 11:00am. \nFor additional information about Birdability Week and the Birdability initiative\, please see: \nhttps://www.audubon.org/get-involved/birdability-week \nhttps://www.birdability.org/ \nThis trip will be limited to 20 participants. Contact Zane Pickus for more details or to sign-up at: \nzanep987@gmail.com \nYolo Audubon Society field trips are free and open to the public. Some trips may be limited by number of participants\, if stated in the description. Car-pooling is encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between driver and riders. Heavy rain or high winds may cancel any trip. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/birdability-trip-to-lake-solano-county-park/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241102T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241102T080000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20240925T054514Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241026T001917Z UID:7104-1730534400-1730534400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Lake Solano County Park/Putah Creek DESCRIPTION: Yellow-rumped Warbler ©Sharon Kirkpatrick \nOn this trip we will visit Lake Solano County Park where Putah Creek runs between Yolo and Solano Counties.  We will be looking for resident species as well as those that come to spend the winter in the area.  The oak woodland\, riparian habitat and creek can result in bird sightings that include Osprey\, Phainopepla\, Wood Duck and hopefully several species of woodpeckers. There could be some surprises like Pileated Woodpecker\, Red-breasted Sapsucker and Bald Eagle. \nMeet at 8:00 AM at Lake Solano County Park day-use parking lot\, on Pleasants Valley Road.  There is a $6 fee per vehicle for parking.  All trip participants should be vaccinated.  Federal\, state\, and local health guidelines will be followed.  Trip will conclude early afternoon.  Bring water\, binoculars and spotting scopes if you have one.  We will not be stopping for a designated lunch break.  There is some walking on uneven terrain but for the most part it is flat.  Beginning birders are welcome.  Rain and strong wind cancels trip. \nTrip Leader: Sharon Kirkpatrick (530)220-3735 (cell) or sckirkpa@gmail.com URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/lake-solano-county-park-putah-creek/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241110T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241110T150000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20241007T232825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241007T232825Z UID:7114-1731223800-1731250800@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Sparrow Bingo DESCRIPTION:Song Sparrow ©Zane Pickus \nFall migration is largely over and the winter birds are settling in. Join Bart Wickel and Zane Pickus for a local jaunt around Yolo County. The challenge: to find as many species of sparrows as possible. To further the fun of this trip participants will be able to check sparrows off of a bingo card! As believers in the rule that when you search for one bird\, you discover another\, expect anything on this trip– the sparrows are just the excuse to get out and about. This will also be a good trip to practice birding by ear. Route to be determined as conditions warrant\, but often includes a variety of habitats including Putah Creek Canyon and select locations around Winters and Esparto. \nWe’ll meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Marketplace Shopping Center (near Big 5 Sporting Goods\, 1301 W. Covell\, just east of Hwy 113). Bring binoculars\, scopes\, cameras\, snacks\, lunch\, and beverages. High winds or a significant rainstorm cancel this trip. We will return by 3:00pm. \nThis trip will be limited to 15 participants. Contact Zane Pickus for more details or to sign-up at: \nzanep987@gmail.com \nYolo Audubon Society field trips are free and open to the public. Some trips may be limited by number of participants\, if stated in the description. Car-pooling is encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between driver and riders. Heavy rain or high winds may cancel any trip URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/sparrow-bingo/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241130T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241130T160000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20241026T231820Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241026T231820Z UID:7238-1732953600-1732982400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Sacramento and Colusa Wildlife Refuges DESCRIPTION:Sacramento Wildlife Refuge ©Genevieve Colborn \nTrip Leaders: Genevieve Colborn and Kelli O’Neill \nDescription:\nThis post-Thanksgiving trip will feature iconic Central Valley wintering birds at two national wildlife refuges. Depending on water conditions\, late November at the Sacramento and Colusa National Wildlife Refuges can be a phenomenal birding location. These refuges host hundreds of thousands of wintering geese and ducks\, as well as many other birds. We will have good chances of seeing bald eagles and other raptors. We will bird the auto loops at both refuges\, stopping at the observation tower in Sacramento NWR and the observation deck at Colusa NWR. Depending on the weather\, we may take a short trail walk. \nAll participants are expected to be vaccinated. Masks may be required in vehicles depending on preferences of drivers and passengers. Current health guidelines will be followed. Please bring a lunch and water and dress in layers. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation. Driving time from Davis is approximately one hour each way. \nAccessibility:\nMost birding will be done by car\, with a couple of short walks on flat\, mostly even terrain. \nMeeting Location and Registration:\nPlease contact Genevieve Colborn at tlcgdc@gmail.com\, or 916-764-5796\, to register and for details regarding where to meet. This trip will be limited to 12 participants in a maximum of 4 cars. A one-day pass ($6) or National Parks pass is required for each vehicle. It can be purchased beforehand online or at the kiosk to the refuge on the day of the trip. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/sacramento-and-colusa-wildlife-refuges/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250111T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250111T103000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250106T200159Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250106T200159Z UID:7422-1736582400-1736591400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Bridgeway Island Pond DESCRIPTION:Trip Leaders: Lynette Williams Duman and Konshau Duman \nDescription:\nIn the heart of winter waterfowl season\, please join us as we bird Bridgeway Island Pond and the Deepwater Shipping Channel in West Sacramento. Bridgeway Island Pond is one of the premier locations in California to observe large concentrations of Blue-winged and Cinnamon Teal at close range. Additionally\, it is a great place to look for Spotted Sandpiper\, Common Gallinule\, American White Pelicans\, and American Avocet. But\, as with everything in life\, you never know what shorebird or waterfowl may be sitting on the muddy spit waiting to be discovered! After covering Bridgeway Island Pond\, we will walk up the levee and scan the Deepwater Shipping Channel. Our targets here will be water-loving birds such as Bald Eagle\, Osprey\, Common Merganser\, and Western Grebe. A small stand of trees and bushes could yield passerines such as Spotted Towhee\, Orange-crowned Warbler\, and who knows what else! \nAccessibility:\nMost birding will be done on foot. We will begin on a level path\, and walk up a graveled levee to reach the ship channel. There will be a small stretch where the path is quite narrow but still largely level. Bathrooms are unavailable at this location. \nMeeting Location and Registration:\nWe will meet at 8:00am at the cul-de-sac at the end of Pender Island Rd in West Sacramento\, here: 38.540733\, -121.577855. Bring binoculars\, a scope (if you have one)\, water\, and snacks. High winds or significant rain will cancel this trip. Beginners are welcome and no sign-ups are necessary! We will conclude at approximately 10am.\nhttps://maps.app.goo.gl/JSFKhM9MD8TMxoB27 \nPlease contact trip leaders Lynette Williams Duman and Konshau Duman with any questions at lbwilliams@ucdavis.edu and kduman@ucdavis.edu. \nYolo Audubon Society field trips are free and open to the public. Carpooling is highly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between drivers and riders. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/bridgeway-island-pond/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250119T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250119T170000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250110T231237Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250114T193349Z UID:7449-1737271800-1737306000@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Raptor Ramble 2025 - TRIP IS FULL DESCRIPTION:Merlin ©Kevin Guse \nTrip Leader: Kevin Guse \nDescription:  TRIP IS FULL \nCalifornia’s Central Valley has one of the largest wintering raptor populations in the country. Our goal will be to see how many species of raptors we can find on this annual trip. Highlights of past trips include Ferruginous Hawk\, Rough-legged Hawk\, Golden Eagle\, Peregrine Falcon\, Merlin\, Bald Eagle and Prairie Falcon. Route to be determined as conditions warrant.  \nAccessibility: \nThis trip will have a mix of birding by car and on foot\, and involves a full day in the field. Bathrooms may be limited depending on the route. \nMeeting Location and Registration: \nBirders of all ages and skill levels are welcome! Please bring binoculars\, a spotting scope if you have one\, lunch\, plenty of liquids\, layers of clothes and be prepared for a full day trip. High winds or significant rain will cancel this trip. The trip will return to its meeting location by 5:00pm. \nThe Raptor Ramble will be limited to 15 participants. This is a popular trip and spaces fill up fast\, so sign-up early if you are interested! Please contact Zane Pickus with any questions or to sign-up at yolobirdalliance@gmail.com \nYolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public. Carpooling is highly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between drivers and riders. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/raptor-ramble-2025/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250125T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250125T150000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250110T232200Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T152028Z UID:7452-1737793800-1737817200@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Robinson Road: Raptors and Plovers -TRIP IS FULL DESCRIPTION:Mountain Plover ©Zane Pickus \nTrip Leader: Sharon Kirkpatrick \nDescription: TRIP IS FULL \nJoin us for a trip to the pastures of southeastern Solano County to search for overwintering raptors & other winter visitors. The fields in the vicinity of Robinson and Flannery Roads can be a fantastic location to observe locally uncommon grassland species. We will search fields\, perches and farm equipment for raptors\, and scan pastures for Mountain Plovers\, Horned Larks\, and Burrowing Owls. Prior trips have also seen Prairie Falcons\, Merlins\, Golden Eagles\, Ferruginous Hawks\, and Rough-legged Hawks.  We hope to see these and many more species during this trip. \nAccessibility: \nMost birding will be done by car\, with frequent stops to get out and scan for birds. There may be a few short walks along the gravel roads\, but they will be on level ground. Bathrooms are unavailable at this location.  \nMeeting Location and Registration: \nBirders of all ages and skill levels are welcome! Please bring binoculars\, water\, snacks or lunch (though we don’t stop for this)\, and layers for winter weather. A spotting scope is worth bringing if you have one. High winds or significant rain will cancel this trip. The trip will return to its meeting location by 3:00pm. \nThe Robinson Road field trip will be limited to 11 people in 3 cars. Since this is a popular trip and spaces fill up fast\, sign-up early if you are interested. Once you have signed up the meeting location will be confirmed. Please contact Zane Pickus with any questions or to sign-up at yolobirdalliance@gmail.com \nYolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public. Carpooling is highly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between drivers and riders. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/robinson-road-raptors-and-plovers/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250202T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250202T120000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250115T230742Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250202T004736Z UID:7459-1738485000-1738497600@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk for Beginners - Putah Creek Riparian Reserve - TRIP POSTPONED DESCRIPTION:Western Bluebird ©Zane Pickus \nTrip Leaders: Autumn Turner\, John Hansen\, Sonjia Shelly\, Lynette Williams Duman\, Zane Pickus \nDescription:  TRIP POSTPONED DUE TO ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS.  Check back for rescheduled date.   \nHave you always been interested in birds and want to learn more? This field trip is intended for beginning and inexperienced birders. Several Yolo Bird Alliance board members will lead this visit to the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve. The location along Putah Creek\, on the west edge of the UC Davis campus\, is a wonderful oak woodland and riparian strip\, bordered by agricultural land. This diversity of habitat allows birders to find an impressive diversity of species in a small area. We will be looking for both resident species as well as wintering birds. The group may see hawks\, Wood Ducks\, Western Bluebirds\, various woodpeckers\, Yellow-rumped Warblers\, American Robins\, and more. The walk will take a slow pace to ensure everyone gets good looks at the birds we find.  \nAccessibility: \nAll birding will be done on foot. Expect a roughly 2-mile walk on fairly level terrain. Bathrooms are available at the picnic area near Hopkins Road.  \nMeeting Location and Registration: \nParticipants will meet at the gravel parking lot at the end of Hopkins Road at 8:30 AM. Parking here is free on weekends. The trip will end by 12:00pm. Please bring plenty of water and binoculars. The club does have some binoculars for loan\, as well as a spotting scope to share. Rain or strong wind will cancel the trip. No reservations are necessary\, everyone is welcome! \nhttps://maps.app.goo.gl/owcMbXwbssSGnetx8  \nYolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public. Please contact Zane Pickus with any questions at yolobirdalliance@gmail.com URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/bird-walk-for-beginners-putah-creek-riparian-reserve/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250208T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250208T120000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250130T232144Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T064551Z UID:7481-1739001600-1739016000@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:POSTPONED DESCRIPTION:Northern Harrier ©Zane Pickus \nEvent Organizers: Yolo Bird Alliance\, Yolo Basin Foundation\, Birdwatching Club at UC Davis. \nDescription: \nNote: This event has been postponed. \nMap of Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area \nYou are invited to join the Yolo Bird Alliance\, Yolo Basin Foundation\, and the Birdwatching Club at UC Davis for a joint event at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area! On Saturday\, February 8th\, we will be hosting a “Big Sit!” You may have heard of a “Big Day” or a “Big Year” – birding challenges where birders attempt to see as many species as possible in a given time frame\, but a Big Sit is different. The challenge is to detect as many species as possible while staying in one stationary location. For our event\, we will be looking for birds from Parking Lot C of the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area. This will put us right in the middle of excellent marsh habitat\, perfect for seeing a great diversity of species! Those who stop by can expect to see or hear a variety of geese\, ducks\, rails\, sparrows\, herons\, and shorebirds. It is certain to be a fun day for all involved. \nUnlike many birding field trips\, this event is special in that participants can come and go as they please. Feel free to drop by for a few minutes\, an hour\, or longer! The intention behind this trip is that it is accessible for as many people as possible. We hope that anyone interested will come and share in enjoying the birds of the wildlife area. Bring binoculars\, a scope if you have one\, and excitement about birds! \nThe organizations listed above will have representatives happy to chat about birds and the wildlife area. Additionally\, we will keep a running list of species detected throughout the day. The Big Sit will conclude at 1:00pm. \nAccessibility: \nThis is a stationary event in which participants can come and go as they please. No prior birding experience is necessary\, and the area is handicap accessible. Outhouses are available nearby. Besides our Big Sit area\, the rest of the auto tour loop is sure to be full of birds and is worth exploring on your own (please see the attached map from Yolo Basin Foundation). \nMeeting Location and Registration: \nThe Big Sit will take place at Parking Lot C of the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area\, beginning at 8:00 am on February 8th. We will have a table with information on local birds\, the organizations involved\, and extra binoculars to share. Anyone can stop by! Parking Lot C is here: \nhttps://maps.app.goo.gl/hJjX2xCg3PhEgZyP6?g_st=i&utm_campaign=ac-im \n Winter birding events are always at risk of bad weather. A postponement will occur in the event that the wildlife area is closed due to flooding\, or if heavy rain is projected on the day of the Big Sit. Please check back on the Yolo Bird Alliance’s website and Facebook page  for more details\, or contact Zane Pickus yolobirdalliance@gmail.com \nYolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/2025-yolo-bypass-wildlife-area-big-sit/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250216T063000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250216T173000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250130T222210Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T222210Z UID:7475-1739687400-1739727000@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Winter Field Trip to Bodega Bay DESCRIPTION:Red Knot ©Kevin Guse \nTrip Leader: Kevin Guse \nDescription: \nYou are cordially invited to join us for a trip to one of the crown jewels of Northern California birding: Bodega Bay. On this trip we will be looking for a wide variety of winter bird species\, including shorebirds\, gulls\, loons\, grebes\, ducks\, raptors and wading birds. Previous trips have seen Brant\, Long-tailed Duck\, Red-necked Grebe\, over a dozen shorebird species\, and a “cormorant sweep” of Brandt’s\, Double-crested\, and Pelagic Cormorants. This trip frequently finds over seventy species and is one of Yolo Bird Alliance’s most popular events. \nAccessibility: \nA mix of birding by car and on foot. There will be a few short walks on level terrain. Bathrooms are available in a few locations\, but not at all stops. \nMeeting Location and Registration: \nBirders of all ages and skill levels are welcome! Please bring binoculars\, water\, snacks\, lunch\, and layers for winter weather. A spotting scope is worth bringing if you have one\, though Yolo Bird Alliance will have one for the group to share. High winds or significant rain will cancel this trip. This will be a full day of birding\, meeting at 6:30 AM and returning to the meeting location by 5:30pm. \nThis is a popular trip\, so don’t hesitate to sign up! Participants will be limited such that the trip is limited to 5 cars. The meeting location will be distributed upon signing up. Please contact Zane Pickus with any questions or to register at yolobirdalliance@gmail.com \nYolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public. Carpooling is highly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between drivers and riders. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/winter-field-trip-to-bodega-bay/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250329T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250329T110000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250306T023324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T023324Z UID:7539-1743235200-1743246000@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:eBirding the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve DESCRIPTION:Bullock’s Oriole ©Zane Pickus \nTrip Leader: Zane Pickus\, Emmett Iverson \nDescription: \nThis trip will focus on the ins and outs of the eBird app. Since its inception in 2002\, eBird has become the largest citizen science project in the world. Every day\, birders from around the world submit their sightings and contribute to the massive database of bird distributions\, simultaneously tracking their personal notes and bird lists. eBird has tremendous value to birders of all levels\, and the app makes it easy to create checklists and log bird sightings wherever you go. This trip will be geared towards those with little eBird experience\, specifically with the benefits of using the eBird app. \nAs for the birds\, spring migration will be well underway for many species and just beginning for others\, so we can expect an exciting morning on the creek. Sparrows\, goldfinches\, swallows\, nuthatches\, and wrens should all be singing and searching for nest sites\, and by this date we can hope for a beautiful Bullock’s Oriole or other neotropical migrant! \nAccessibility: \nThis trip will involve 2-3 miles of walking along well-maintained reserve trails. Most of these are flat\, but there are small slopes in a few spots. There will be frequent stops to talk about birds and log sightings in the eBird mobile app. Outhouses are available at the meeting location \nMeeting Location and Registration: \nBirders of all ages and skill levels are welcome! Please bring binoculars\, water\, and a mobile phone capable of downloading the eBird mobile app. Yolo Bird Alliance will have a scope to share\, though this trip will mostly be in creek riparian habitat. High winds or significant rain will cancel this trip. This trip will be capped at 15 participants. \nTrip leaders ask that participants have created an eBird account and download the eBird app for iOS or Android prior to the trip. Information on how to do this can be found here: https://ebird.org/about/ebird-mobile/. Additional information about eBird and how it can be used to learn about birds can be found at this recorded Yolo Bird Alliance speaker series presentation from 2022: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujLAMPCToqg. \nPlease contact Zane Pickus with any questions or to sign-up at yolobirdalliance@gmail.com \nYolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public. Carpooling is highly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between drivers and riders. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/ebirding-the-putah-creek-riparian-reserve/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250412T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250412T090000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250309T225408Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250309T225408Z UID:7565-1744441200-1744448400@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Spring Migration at Willowbank Ditch DESCRIPTION:Wilson’s Warbler ©Julian Johnson \nTrip Leader: Rob Furrow \nDescription: \nThis walking trip focuses on the migrating songbirds passing through Davis. Willowbank Ditch in South Davis has a fantastic mix of mature trees\, dense understory\, and diverse fruiting and flowering plants. In mid-April\, insects abound and plants burst with flowers and new vegetation\, attracting migratory warbler species such as Wilson’s\, Orange-crowned\, Nashville\, Black-throated Gray\, and Townsend’s. There will still be some lingering winterers; we’ll hope for kinglets\, Hermit Thrushes\, and assorted sparrows. Overhead we’ll keep an eye out for swallows\, swifts\, and locally nesting Swainson’s Hawks. While birding we will practice thinking from a bird’s-eye view\, identifying habitat structure and key food sources that attract birds. \nAccessibility: \nExpect 1-1.5 miles of walking along flat greenbelt and trails\, although we will never be more than ½ of a mile from the meeting spot. \nMeeting Location and Registration: \nThe trip will leave from the junction of Almond Lane and Rosario Street in Davis.  There is street parking around this junction\, and this intersection has a walking path that leads to the footbridge over the Willowbank Ditch.  https://maps.app.goo.gl/RGoAEvynKv9u3kN26 \nWe will meet at 7:00am and the trip will end around 9:00am. Please bring binoculars as well as any desired snacks and water. Heavy rain will cancel the trip. For more information contact Rob Furrow at robertfurrow@gmail.com or 610-715-9123. \nYolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/spring-migration-at-willowbank-ditch-2/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250413T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250413T120000 DTSTAMP:20260427T041907 CREATED:20250320T000510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T153052Z UID:7594-1744531200-1744545600@yolobirdalliance.org SUMMARY:Birding\, Botanizing\, and Rock Hounding: Genesis and Natural History at Bobcat Ranch - TRIP IS FULL DESCRIPTION:Bobcat Ranch ©Marc Hoshovsky \nTrip Leaders: – TRIP IS FULL \nMatt Allshouse\, Marc Hoshovsky\, Chase Kautz\, Ina Rommeck\, and Autumn Turner \nDescription: \nTake part in this limited opportunity to explore Audubon California’s Bobcat Ranch near Winters on April 13th. Join geologist Marc Hoshovsky\, Yolo Bird Alliance volunteer Autumn Turner\, native plant specialists Ina Rommeck and Chase Kautz\, and ranch manager Matt Allshouse for a special guided nature hike.  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 as part of an ongoing phenology study since 2016. \nSpringtime at Bobcat Ranch is a special time of year\, with lots of new grass growth and showy wildflower displays\, and typically the best weather of the year for this region. It is also a great time of year to observe birds. Resident birds are beginning to nest and raise young\, and late-season winter migrants are preparing to fly off to their breeding grounds. \nLeaders will guide participants on a short 1.5 mile interpretive hike (elevation gain 350’) from the ranch HQ to Buckhorn Spring. The trip will be partially along a ranch road and partially on stock trails through open blue-oak woodland. Marc will highlight some interesting geological features\, Matt will cover the history of the ranch\, and Autumn\, Ina\, and Chase will help participants identify birds and wildflowers and talk about the seasonal changes that have been observed on the ranch in the spring. \nAccessibility: \nPlease note that the 1.5 miles of trail includes some rocky and/or slippery terrain\, and short portions with steep inclines. A port-a-potty will be available at the trailhead. Cell phone service is limited at the Ranch. \nMeeting Location and Registration: \nNature enthusiasts from all backgrounds are welcome to join. Please prepare for the weather and variable conditions by bringing water and snacks\, wearing sturdy\, close-toed shoes\, and dressing in layers. The tour may be rescheduled in the event of heavy rain. A camera and binoculars are recommended. \nWe have special permission to lead the group on Bobcat Ranch\, which has limited public access. Maximum group size is 20. Participants will need to sign an Audubon liability waiver prior to entering the Ranch in addition to the YBA field trip waiver.  Participants will rendezvous in Davis and carpool/caravan to the property. Carpooling is highly encouraged\, but all rides are private arrangements between drivers and riders. \nPlease contact Yolo Bird Alliance Field Trip Coordinator Zane Pickus with any questions or to sign up at yolobirdalliance@gmail.com. \nYolo Bird Alliance field trips are free and open to the public. URL:https://yolobirdalliance.org/event/birding-botanizing-and-rock-hounding-genesis-and-natural-history-at-bobcat-ranch/ CATEGORIES:Field Trip END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR