Deer Island Bird Walk

Join guest leader David Herlocker and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for a walk around this Novato preserve and say farewell to many of our “winter” visitors. We will search the oak savannah and woodlands for Say’s phoebes, ruby-crowned kinglets and Townsend’s warblers while we scan the nearby wetlands for waterfowl and shorebirds that will soon be off to their breeding grounds. This is also a good time to see flocks of migrating swallows feasting on insects rising from the marshes and pastures; and of course there should be plenty of raptors overhead as well. We will also observe and discuss the restoration projects around the preserve such as Marin Audubon’s Simmons Slough wetland, and the Novato Creek restoration project site.

For more on the birds you can expect here, see our profile of Deer Island or check recent sightings on eBird.

Bring binoculars if you have them and please leave pets at home; we will have a few extra loaner pairs of binos available. The walk around the “island” is around 1.8 miles and is fairly level.

Reserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above.  This walk is fully booked; please check back soon for additional upcoming events. 

Wild Birds Unlimited bird walks are intended for persons in reasonably good health and physical condition. Participants must be capable of walking over uneven terrain and be adequately prepared for the prevailing outdoor conditions. By registering for this walk, I acknowledge that participation entails known and unanticipated risks, including personal injury to myself and others and property damage. Notwithstanding these risks, I wish to assume them by voluntarily participating in these activities. I hereby release Wild Birds Unlimited and its officers, employees, and affiliates from any and all liability for any injury or loss arising out of my participation in these activities.

Directions to Deer Island: From Hwy 101 in Novato, take the exit for Atherton Ave east 1.7 miles. Turn right onto Olive Ave and left onto Deer Island Ln. Gate and small parking area will be on your right. For GPS, you can use 320 Deer Island Lane, which is the building closest to the trailhead parking area.

Header image: Deer Island’s green trails in springtime freshness.