May is the perfect time to listen for the sweet call of one of the park’s year-round residents, the chestnut-backed chickadee. When potential predators—or hikers or bikers—draw close to nests (usually located in tree cavities), mating pairs may call back and forth with their high-pitched alarm call, “chick-a-dee-dee-dee.”. Scientists believe that the more “dee-dees” tacked on the end of the call, the bigger the danger. This month, come on a stroll through Miwok Meadows as we look and listen for these and other charismatic birds, like oak titmice and cedar waxwings.

Naturalist Jerry Coe will show us how to identify birds by shape, flight patterns, calls, and habitat. In addition, he’ll offer tips on how to effectively use binoculars and bird guides. Jerry has over eight years of intensive training in ornithological field identification. He spent 15 years as a volunteer in Nevada’s Great Basin National Park, using bird activities to assess the health of habitats. Jerry has also guided outdoor expeditions all over the world. 

Date: Saturday, May 28

Time: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Location: Turtle Back Trailhead

Walking difficulty: Easy; 1½ miles 

REGISTER HERE

Space is limited; reservations required. 

Free (donations appreciated).

Cancellations notified via email.

Questions? Email programs@friendsofchinacamp.org or call (415) 456-0766.

Photo: Chestnut-backed chickadee by Paul Fenwick | Macaulay Library