Like the ever-changing wardrobe of teenage humans, young fledgling seagulls exhibit a continuous refashoning of plumage in the five years leading up to maturity. During this period, their colors and patterns constantly change, making them a challenge for even experienced birders to correctly identify. We will accept this challenge during this summer’s birding hikes, as we will take to the shoreline to focus on ID’ing shorebirds, waders, ducks, and gulls. We will also explore upland grassland and scrub habitat, which is often filled with small singing and perching birds.

We will also review the four keys to identifying birds (size, shape, overall color, behavior/habitat). Participants will also learn how to identify birds by observing flight patterns, noting body shapes and sizes, hearing songs, and watching behaviors. Please join us for this monthly bird walk, and be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and binoculars.

Date: Saturday, June 17 

Time: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Location: Bullhead Flat Parking Lot

Difficulty: Easy; 1½ miles 

REGISTER FOR JUNE 17

Date: Saturday, July 22

Time: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Location: Turtle Back Trailhead

Difficulty: Easy; 1½ miles 

REGISTER FOR JULY 22

Space is limited; reservations required. 

Free (donations appreciated).

Cancellations notified via email.

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

Photo: Juvenile western gull by Richard Bunn / Macaulay Library