Winter-Time is a fantastic time to bird!
Wintering raptors like Ferruginous, Rough Legged and Merlins....Waterfowl of many different species including Tundra Swans and millions of geese.....Not to mention a Let's Go Birding favorite, the Sandhill Cranes. And we can't forget the Mountain Bluebirds and Mountain Plover also found in the area during this time of year. It is a fantastic time to get outside and enjoy this annual spectacle. Each year millions of birds escape the snow covered habitats by wintering in California. We are so fortunate to be able to enjoy this impressive wildlife so close to home. In addition to the species mentioned above we also have delightful wintering species living in our own neighborhoods....Varied and Hermit Thrush, Cedar Waxwings, Fox and Crowned Sparrows, Say's Phoebes, Red-Breasted Sapsuckers, American Pipits, Pine Siskins........ I invite everyone to check out my upcoming trips and classes and I enourage you to embrace a little nature. It's a great way to start a new year. Ferruginous Hawk photographed in Santa Clara County by Douglas Joo
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Upcoming Events, come join!
| Sat. January 30, 2010 |
Panoche Valley - Final Trip Report |
| February 20, 2010 |
Merced National Wildlife Refuge - Final Trip Report |
| Sat. March 20, 2010 |
Birding the San Mateo County Coast |
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So what is birding?
A hobby, a sport, a challenge, a good time |
 Non-birders often ask,
what is birdwatching?
They aren't quite sure of the goal. In a nut shell, birding gets people outside to enjoy nature. Looking for birds is like going on a treasure
hunt. Everywhere you
look you know you can find a real gem & if you're lucky, it flew in from Russia! As you get into the sport you end up with great toys from the best in high powered optics, to fancy tripods and ipods. Then there are all the latest outdoor clothes that keep you warm, cool or dry depending on the desired habitat. Birding motivates one to explore the open spaces that people have worked so hard to preserve while also appreciating the birds in your own yard. Eventually birders travel the world to find new species. Birders climb mountains, visit glaciers, cross deserts and go out far into the ocean. You meet great people and often end up doing service for organizations that can use a little help. All are welcome regardless of personal beliefs and whether you are male or female. THAT'S what birding is. Cedar Waxwing image by Garret Lau
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| Birding Tip Of The Month |
Birds are preparing for the breeding season. Be careful when trimming back your yards new growth, there could be the start of a nest nearby.
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