Local birders know that in fall, the quiet and patient hiker at China Camp will be rewarded with the distinctive call of our beautiful winter residents, the golden-crowned sparrows. During the Gold Rush, Yukon miners noticed its slow descending three or four-note whistle-like call, and likened it to the pessimistic phrase “No gold here”- but we know these birds are as good as gold in their delightful presence! Around the autumn equinox, these winter residents usually make their way to the Bay Area from their summer homes in the icy tundra of Alaska and British Colombia.

Naturalist Jerry Coe will discuss these and other birds that we may spot on this month’s birding hike. He will show us how to identify birds by shape, flight patterns, calls, and habitat, and give tips on how to effectively use binoculars and bird guides. 

Jerry Coe 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, November 6

Time: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Location: Details emailed to you when you register. 

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 credit: Golden-crowned sparrow by David M. Bell | Macaulay Library