Friends: Many of you have participated in our volunteer and education programs for years. But due to funding cuts, we’ve offered no programming since early March 2020. This year and next we have funding for a seasonal ornithologist who will offer limited programming. For 2024, I’ve hired Zach Vickers, who has a Master’s Degree from Missouri State University. His will restart our long term bird monitoring projects and also do education programs.
Ecology Programs, Nature Walks
When: Fridays and some Saturday, late February through June, 10am – noon
What:
Fridays: Cougars, Bobcats and Coyotes
Experience how wildlife biologists study large mammals in southern California using scent-baited stations (scent stations). We will provide participants with the skills to identify signs such as tracks and scat left by large mammals when they visit the scent stations.
Fridays: Birds of Starr Ranch
For new birders, an introduction to the most common bird species on Starr Ranch followed by a bird walk. Experienced birders are welcome and can help point out birds. Feeding platforms may be set up to attract songbirds for viewing close up with our spotting scope.
Saturdays: Nature Walk on the beautiful “Loop Trail.”
You can sign up for more than one nature walk but it would be on the same trail so perhaps once in late winter and once in spring. (moderately strenuous – one steep uphill and one downhill stretch)
You’ll receive confirmation, directions and other info. Questions: Sandy 949-858-0309, sdesimone@audubon.org