Up in the sky! It’s a bird! No, it’s a plane! No, it’s Superma– no wait, it’s definitely a bird. A Western bluebird! Catch this beauty and its aerial acrobatics on this month’s birding hike at China Camp. These year-round insect-eaters change color during their summer nesting season, transitioning from a muted gray-blue to vibrant royal blue.

On this month’s guided walk, join naturalist Jerry Coe as we look for these beautiful birds and other summer residents in China Camp’s oak woodland, grassland, and marshland habitats. 

Jerry will lead a discussion about how different bird species exhibit specialized adaptations to particular habitats. He’ll also show us how to identify birds by overall shape, overall color, behavior, habitat, and songs, and will 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 breeding bird activities to assess the health of habitats. Jerry has also guided adventure travel expeditions all over the world. 

Date: Saturday, June 25

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: Western bluebird by Brooke Miller/Macaulay Library