San Diego Birding Trip (Birdathon)

Leader: Kevin Schwarz

Date: May 8-10

Price: $470 nonmember and $375 member

Description: 

With 552 species recorded in eBird, San Diego County is one of the most diverse and remarkable counties to bird in the country. From the riparian scrub and tidal flats of the Tijuana River estuary to the desert scrub and chaparral along the Pacific Crest Trail in the Cleveland National Forest and in Anza-Borrego State Park, San Diego presents us with so many fantastic birding Hotspots within a short distance.

Tijuana River - Valley-Black-throated Magpie-Jay, Cassin's Kingbird, Bell’s Vireo, Swainson’s Thrush, Yellow-breasted Chat, California Gnatcatcher, Nashville Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Townsend's Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Bullock’s Oriole, Hooded Oriole, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Willow Flycatcher, Hammond's Flycatcher, Black-chinned Hummingbird

Salt Ponds and Bays of San Diego - Least Tern, Gull- billed Tern, Royal Tern, Reddish Egret, Little Stint, Snowy Plover, Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, Little Blue Heron, Tricolored Heron

Mountains and Deserts - Brown-crested Flycatcher, White-winged Dove, Bell’s Vireo, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Verdin, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Black-throated Sparrow, Gray Vireo, Black-chinned Sparrow, Yellow-breasted Chat, Cactus Wren, California Thrasher, Phainopepla, Lawrence’s Goldfinch, Brewer’s Sparrow, Hooded Oriole, Bullock's Oriole, Scott's Oriole, Western Tanager, Summer Tanager, Blue Grosbeak, Yellow Warbler, Hermit Warbler

Most of the trails and walkways we will be on are in good condition and there will not be a lot of elevation gain. We will be focused on birding and as such will take the time for everyone to get a chance to see the species and not rush from one destination to the other. The trip will require the ability to walk up to several miles in a day over uneven ground. We will have plenty of time to bird and take breaks. Carry and drink plenty of water and snacks. Wear loose-fitting clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes or boots with ankle support. Please note that the price of this trip is for the bird tour component only—you are responsible for your own transportation, accommodation, and meals. A list of hotels and more details will be provided upon registration.

Limit: 12 participants max