Winter is a great time to spot both California brown pelicans and striking white pelicans along China Camp’s shoreline. What are the key differences between these two entertaining waterbirds? Aside from the color, the white pelican is much larger, boasting a nine-foot wingspan that makes the bird one of the largest in North America. The brown pelican, though smaller than its snow-white cousins, is hardly tiny, with it own impressive wingspan averaging six and a half feet from tip to tip.

Naturalist Jerry Coe will discuss these migratory birds and other species that we may spot on this month’s birding hike. Jerry will show us how to identify birds by shape, flight patterns, calls, and habitat. He’ll also 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. Most recently, Jerry led the 2021 Audubon Christmas Bird Count in Muir Woods.

Date: Saturday, January 22

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: Brown pelicans by Bryant Olsen/Macaulay Library