This class will focus on the migration of passerines, raptors, shorebirds, seabirds and other species at the Point Reyes headlands.

Fall is perhaps the most exciting time to see birds at the national seashore. On our short walks we will search cypress trees, willow thickets, riparian swales, beaches, open water and other habitats for a variety of birds. The abundance of passerines and raptors is highly dependent on weather factors. Explore habitats near Chimney Rock, Drakes Beach or possibly Abbotts Lagoon.

This class will focus on bird identification. The Outer Point Reyes Peninsula can be a mecca for birds and birdwatchers during autumn migration. The month of September is the peak of songbird passage and when conditions are right – lack of strong northwest winds, night sky obscured by high overcast – migrant landbirds fall out on the outer point. Most of these are moderately common species that breed in the western part of the continent. However, some are species that are rare in California, vagrants, birds off course from their normal migratory routes.

David Wimpfheimer is a professional naturalist and biologist. For over forty years David has pursed his passion, natural history of the American West. He enthusiastically shares his extensive knowledge about all aspects of the natural world with many groups including Smithsonian Institution, California Academy of Sciences, Road Scholar and Oceanic Society.

Details

-We will be meeting at the Drakes Beach Visitor Center

– Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in

– Refunds available for all classes 7 days in advance of the start date, after 7 days and before 2 days, participants can credit their class for a future date. All requests before 48 hours in advance will be declined. For COVID policy, see below.

– Please follow the parking instructions for the facility used that day

– Please provide an email you check regularly for updates and reminders about your class

– Registration is required online prior to the event in order to maintain class sizes

– Sales end 48 hours before the start date.

– Waitlists are available when the class sells out

What to Bring

Binoculars are highly recommended

Day Pack

Lunch

Warm Variable Weather Clothing

Hiking Shoes

Water Bottle

Notebook and Pen/Field Journal

Eventbrite Confirmation Email

Camera (Optional)

About the PRNSA Field Institute

The PRNSA Field Institute offers hands-on environmental education classes throughout the year that foster enjoyment of Point Reyes National Seashore. Our classes are led by expert instructors, who take you out of your everyday life and into the natural world. We host a variety of classes about the arts and sciences and have something for everyone. You can reach the Field Institute at (415) 663-1200 x304 or by email at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

Interested in becoming a member of PRNSA? Click Here!

Interested in becoming a PRNSA Field Institute volunteer facilitator, or are you an outdoor educator or artist who would like to teach a PRNSA Field Institute class? Send an Email!

For any questions, please email us at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

COVID-19 Field Institute Guidelines

Please respect the following COVID-19 procedures:

· Perform a health self-check before coming to class using the CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus as a guide

· Do not attend class if you are experiencing COVID symptoms, know that you have had a close exposure, or are suffering from any flu-like or respiratory illness

· Contact the Field Institute if you will not be able to attend due to COVID. You may be eligible to receive a full or partial refund

· Participants exhibiting signs of respiratory illness may be asked to leave class

· Masks are optional at your discretion

· Please bring your own food and water

All guidelines are subject to change pursuant to State or County Health order updates.

Thank you for your cooperation in following these guidelines to help keep everyone safe.