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DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200315T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200315T103000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180325T005424Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200229T192830Z
UID:4971-1584261000-1584268200@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Deer Island Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join Jack and Corrina from Wild Birds Unlimited for a gentle walk around this Novato preserve as we say farewell to many of our winter visitors. We will search the oak savanna and woodlands for Say’s phoebes\, ruby-crowned kinglets\, and Townsend’s warblers while we scan the nearby wetlands for waterfowl that will soon be off to their breeding grounds. Meanwhile\, residents birds and early spring migrants should be singing\, swallow numbers over the wetlands will be rising\, and local raptors will be getting territorial. \nTo learn more about the birds\, habitats\, and octopus trees we’ll encounter\, see our profile of Deer Island or check recent sightings on eBird. \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This walk is now fully booked. Please see our Walks & Talks page for upcoming events from other groups and check back for our April events. We’ll meet at Deer Island (see below for directions) at 8:30 AM on Sunday\, March 15 and wrap up around 10:30 AM. Bring binoculars if you have them and please leave pets at home; we will have a few extra loaner pairs of binos available. This walk involves a gentle\, mostly level stroll of 1.8 miles around the “island.” Note that there are no restrooms or other facilities at this preserve. \nNature in Novato 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 Nature in Novato\, Wild Birds Unlimited\, and their officers\, employees\, and affiliates from any and all liability for any injury or loss arising out of my participation in these activities. \nKinglet by Jacob McGinnis. Soon they shall be gone – first they sing!\nDirections 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. \nHeader image: Deer Island’s green trails in springtime freshness. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/deer-island-walk-3-15-20/
LOCATION:Deer Island Open Space Preserve\, 320 Deer Island Ln\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/deer-island-trail-blog.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200220T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200220T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180828T220642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200131T202207Z
UID:4754-1582189200-1582200000@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Hamilton Wetlands "Behind the Scenes" Birding
DESCRIPTION:Our full array of winter shorebirds has now arrived\, and there is no better local area for large numbers and diversity of plovers\, sandpipers\, stilts\, avocets\, and much more than at the restored Hamilton Wetlands in Novato. At this time of year\, waterfowl and raptor numbers are also at their peak\, and winter songbirds like Say’s phoebes and Lincoln’s sparrows are in place. On this special “behind the scenes” trip\, we’ll travel in carpools on levees roads normally closed to public access from where we’ll get unique views of the wetlands as we approach the breach to San Pablo Bay. Our guides will be David Sexton\, long-time bird monitor throughout the restoration project\, and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited\, who also volunteers with the Hamilton bird monitoring. To learn more about some of the birds we’ll see\, take a look at our Hamilton Wetlands profile. \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above.  This walk is currently fully booked. Please take a look at other upcoming events with us and other local organizations. \nNorthern Shovelers by Ellen & Tony\nWe will be meeting at the skate park parking lot at 1200 Hamilton Parkway in Novato at 9 AM on Thursday\, February 20th. From there we will gather into as few vehicles as possible before continuing into the wetlands restoration area. We will start with a  brief visit with Christina McWhorter\, director of the restoration project\, to learn more about the ongoing work to welcome native plants and wildlife back to the area (last restrooms available here at the nursery). We’ll spend the bulk of our time birding near our convoy of cars at a few stops along the levee\, with perhaps a short walk at adjacent Pacheco Pond if we have extra time before getting back to the starting location around noon. \nThis field trip will potentially have a small amount of level walking\, but will mostly involve slow travel by car with birding at designated stopping points. Participants should be prepared to stay for the whole duration of the walk and to carpool\, as we will be required to compress into as few vehicles as possible. Please leave pets at home and bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll have a few loaner pairs available as well as a few spotting scopes to share. \nWild 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. \nHeader image: A flock of “peeps” (least or western sandpipers) takes flight\, photo by Don McCullough on Flickr. I love watching those big undulating flocks – Hamilton is the place to see them around here. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/hamilton-2-20-20/
LOCATION:Hamilton Wetlands – Skatepark Lot\, 1200 Hamilton Parkway\, Novato\, CA\, 94949\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peep-flock-Don-McCullough-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200215T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200215T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200205T190537Z
UID:4750-1581760800-1581768000@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Loch Lomond Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:This walk is now fully booked. Take a look at our Walks and Talks page for more upcoming events. \nJoin leaders Jack and Angela from Wild Birds Unlimited for a late fall walk at San Rafael’s Loch Lomond Marina. We’ll be particularly looking out for rocky shoreline birds like oystercatchers\, black turnstones\, and spotted sandpipers\, but we’re also certain to see various ducks and other waterbirds as we explore this bayfront trail. To learn more about the birds of Loch Lomond\, see our full site profile. We will be walking about a mile at a very slow pace along a level trail; restroom available at trailhead. \nBlack turnstone – Andy Reago\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above.  \nWild 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. \nDirections to meeting area: The Loch Lomond Marina is located immediately off of Point San Pedro Rd. about 1.6 miles east of downtown San Rafael. Address for GPS is 110 Loch Lomond Dr. Upon entering the marina\, proceed to the far left end of the parking area\, where we will meet by the signed trailhead leading out on the jetty. \nHeader photo: Black Oystercatcher by Nicole Beaulac
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/loch-lomond-2-15-20/
LOCATION:Loch Lomond Marina\, 110 Loch Lomond Dr\, San Rafael\, CA\, 94901\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/oystercatcher-nicole-beaulac-header.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200126T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200126T153000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20190105T230757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200125T220927Z
UID:4616-1580045400-1580052600@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Las Gallinas Ponds Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join guest leader Mark Schulist and Jack from Nature in Novato for this walk at San Rafael’s Las Gallinas Ponds. These water treatment ponds offer year-round\, food-rich waters that attract a wide variety of birds and this is the busiest season of all. We’ll see hundreds of ducks\, as well as other waterbirds\, raptors\, and songbirds. This is one of the best places to start learning about birds\, with a large variety of distinctive\, easy to see species at relatively close distances. To learn more about the birds of Las Gallinas\, see our site profile. \nMute swan – Philip Goddard\nBring binoculars if you have them and please leave pets at home; we will have a few extra loaner pairs of binos and a few spotting scopes to share. We will be walking up to two miles at a slow pace on a level trail. Reserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. \nWild 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. \nDirections to meeting area: To reach the Las Gallinas Ponds\, head east on Smith Ranch Road and continue to the end of the road where it enters McInnis Park. Immediately after crossing the train tracks\, turn left (following the small sign for the wildlife ponds) and continue until you reach the small parking area across the bridge from the ponds. The address for the adjacent water treatment facility is 300 Smith Ranch Road\, which will essentially take you there – just park at the public parking area outside of the facility. \nHeader image: A pair of common mergansers at Las Gallinas\, by Doug Greenberg on Flickr. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/las-gallinas-1-26-20/
LOCATION:Las Gallinas Ponds\, 300 Smith Ranch Rd\, San Rafael\, CA\, 94903\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/mergansers-doug-greenberg.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200112T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200112T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20191230T235328Z
UID:4579-1578835800-1578844800@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Bahia Lagoon Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join guest leader Heather Cameron and Jack from Nature in Novato for this walk at the Bahia Lagoon in northern Novato. This pond near the mouth of the Petaluma River is a local hotspot for common goldeneye (with a few of the less common Barrow’s goldeneye often present)\, as well as other diving ducks and grebes\, raptors including kestrels\, kites\, and harriers\, and a variety of other wetland and open country songbirds including song and Savannah sparrows\, Say’s phoebes\, and western meadowlarks. After observing the water birds for an hour and a half or so\, we will briefly adjourn to the very nearby Bahia trailhead of the Rush Creek Open Space Preserve\, from where we can see some different ducks and shorebirds on the tidal mudflats as well as woodland songbirds for our remaining hour. \nBring binoculars if you have them and please leave pets at home; we will have a few extra loaner pairs of binos and a few spotting scopes to share. We will be walking a short distance on mostly level trails at a slow pace\, with no challenges other than winter birding’s possibilities of cool temperatures and a few puddles. (And we’ve even scheduled this as a rare afternoon walk to try to avoid the chilliest morning conditions!) \nBufflehead by Doug Greenberg\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above.  This walk is now fully booked; check back soon for next month’s events. \nWild 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. \nDirections to meeting area: To reach Bahia\, take the Atherton exit off 101 in northern Novato. Travelling east on Atherton\, turn left on Bugeia Ln\, which turns into Bahia Dr. At the end of Bahia Dr\, turn right on Topaz and continue to the end\, where you can park by the club house\, which has an address you can use for a convenient GPS reference at 3008 Topaz Dr\, Novato\, and on the adjacent dead-end roadside. \nHeader photo: common goldeneye by zenbikescience. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/bahia-1-12-20/
LOCATION:Bahia Lagoon\, 3008 Topaz Dr\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Common-Goldeneye-zenbikescience-wide.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191229T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191229T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20191206T164812Z
UID:4466-1577611800-1577619000@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Hamilton Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:American Avocet – Allan Hack\nJoin Jack and Corrina from Nature in Novato for a winter walk on the Bay Trail at the Hamilton Wetlands. The expansive restored wetlands attract thousands of shorebirds\, waterfowl\, and other birds in the fall and winter months. Mudflats attract sandpipers\, plovers\, curlews and more; shallow water fills with stilts\, avocets\, yellowlegs\, and willets – nowhere else in Novato attracts a wider variety of shorebirds. By December\, Hamilton is also a great place for seeing raptors like kites\, harriers\, and falcons. \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above.  This walk is now full; check back later this month for January events. We’ll be meeting at the parking area of the South Novato Park near the end of Hangar Ave (see directions below). Note that this walk includes a few miles of leisurely walking on a flat\, level trail. There are portable toilets at the trailhead. \nWild 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. \nDirections to South Novato Park parking lot: From Highway 101 take the Ignacio/Bel Marin Keys exit. Stay right onto Nave Drive .7 mi\, go left at Main Gate Rd\, .4 mi\, Main Gate Rd becomes S Palm Dr\, .5mi\, turn right onto Hangar Ave. The parking lot is near the end of Hangar Ave. on the right beneath the solar panels. \nHeader photo: Sandpiper flock by Don McCullough. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/hamilton-12-29-19/
LOCATION:Hamilton – Sports Field Lot\, Hangar Ave and Maybeck St\, Novato\, CA\, 94949\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peep-flock-Don-McCullough-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191123T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191123T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180801T002949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20191102T212434Z
UID:4290-1574499600-1574508600@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Rush Creek Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:The shorebirds and ducks are here! For this walk at Rush Creek Open Space Preserve in northern Novato\, join Jack and Corrina from Nature in Novato as we walk out on the flat Pinheiro Fire Road for about 1.3 miles\, looking at birds along the way\, to reach Cemetery Marsh\, a waterbird hotspot where we’ll spend some time before returning the way we came. We should see a variety of shorebirds\, ducks\, and wintering raptors and songbirds. You can read more about the birds of Rush Creek here. \nNorthern Shovelers by Ellen & Tony\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This walk is now full; take a look at our November Walks & Talks for more walks at Rush Creek led by other local groups. We’ll be meeting at the main trailhead on Binford Road – see below for location details – at 9:00 AM on Saturday\, November 23 and wrapping up around 11:30. We’ll take our time walking a little less than three miles on a generally level fire road. Please leave pets at home and bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll have a few loaner pairs available as well as a spotting scope to share. There are no restrooms or other facilities at this preserve. \nWild 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. \nTo reach Rush Creek\, exit Highway 101 at Atherton Ave in Novato. Heading east on Atherton\, make an immediate sharp left onto Binford Rd\, a frontage road running parallel to 101. Look for the trailhead and roadside parking 60 yards after turning onto Binford. \nHeader photo: Northern Harrier by Don Bartling
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/rush-creek-11-23-19/
LOCATION:Rush Creek Open Space Preserve\, 8186 Binford Rd\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Harrier-header-Don.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191116T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191116T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20190403T010408Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20191102T212542Z
UID:4272-1573894800-1573903800@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Stafford Lake
DESCRIPTION:Spotted sandpiper\, the tail-bobber – Tony Gray\nJoin long-time Marin County Parks interpretative naturalist David Herlocker and Jack from Nature in Novato for this fall walk at Stafford Lake. We’ll look for songbirds and woodpeckers among the trees in the picnic area then work our way along the shore looking for waterfowl on the open water and shorebirds where the water has receded (spotted sandpiper hotspot!). Numerous raptors\, including potential eagles and osprey\, are frequently seen overhead. \nIf you would like to attend this walk\, please select your number of attendees and click “Confirm RSVP” above. This walk is now full; take a look at our November Walks & Talks for more upcoming events. \nDetails and Tips:  \n\nStafford Lake has a $5 vehicle parking fee\, payable by cash or credit card. You can also check out a free Marin County Parks pass at Marin County libraries.\nAfter entering the park\, turn left and park towards the left end of the parking lot\, near the restrooms. This is where our group will be meeting.\nNote that pets are not allowed in the park. Restrooms are available at the meeting location.\nIf you’d like to learn more about the birds we might encounter\, check out our park profile of Stafford Lake.\n\nLocation: Stafford Lake is located on the northwestern outskirts of Novato\, as you head west out of town on Novato Blvd. If you are coming from Highway 101\, take the Atherton/San Marin exit and head west on San Marin Dr. for about three miles. Turn right on Novato Blvd at the four-way stop after San Marin High School. Stafford Lake has a well-signed entrance and turn lane on the left hand side two-and-a-half miles from that intersection. Address for GPS is 3549 Novato Blvd. \nAfter passing the entry kiosk and paying the $5 park entrance fee\, turn left and proceed to the end of the parking lot. We’ll be meeting at this left end of the parking area\, shaded by bird-laden oaks\, but with convenient proximity to lake views and restrooms. \nHeader photo: Stafford Lake by Noondueler on summitpost.org \n 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/stafford-11-16-19/
LOCATION:Stafford Lake Park\, 3549 Novato Blvd\, Novato\, CA\, 94947\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Stafford-header-noondueler.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191019T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191019T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180828T220642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20191007T181546Z
UID:4052-1571475600-1571486400@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Hamilton Wetlands "Behind the Scenes" Birding
DESCRIPTION:Our full array of winter shorebirds and have now arrived\, and there is no better local area for large numbers and diversity of plovers\, sandpipers\, stilts\, avocets\, and much more than at the restored Hamilton Wetlands in Novato. By mid-October\, waterfowl and raptor numbers will also be nearing their peak\, and winter songbirds like Say’s phoebes and Lincoln’s sparrows will be in place. On this special “behind the scenes” trip\, we’ll travel in carpools on levees roads normally closed to public access from where we’ll get unique views of the wetlands as we approach the breach to San Pablo Bay. Our guides will be David Sexton\, long-time bird monitor throughout the restoration project\, and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited\, who also volunteers with the Hamilton bird monitoring. To learn more about some of the birds we’ll see\, take a look at our Hamilton Wetlands profile. \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above.  This trip is now fully booked. Check back soon for November’s events! \nNorthern Shovelers by Ellen & Tony\nWe will be meeting at the skate park parking lot at 1200 Hamilton Parkway in Novato at 9 AM on Saturday\, October 19th. From there we will gather into as few vehicles as possible before continuing into the wetlands restoration area. We will start with a  brief visit with Christina McWhorter\, director of the restoration project\, to learn more about the ongoing work to welcome native plants and wildlife back to the area (last restrooms available here at the nursery). We’ll spend the bulk of our time birding near our convoy of cars at a few stops along the levee\, with perhaps a short walk at adjacent Pacheco Pond if we have extra time before getting back to the starting location around noon. \nThis field trip will potentially have a small amount of level walking\, but will mostly involve slow travel by car with birding at designated stopping points. Participants should be prepared to stay for the whole duration of the walk and to carpool\, as we will be required to compress into as few vehicles as possible. Please leave pets at home and bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll have a few loaner pairs available as well as a few spotting scopes to share. \nWild 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. \nHeader image: A flock of “peeps” (least or western sandpipers) takes flight\, photo by Don McCullough on Flickr. I love watching those big undulating flocks – Hamilton is the place to see them around here. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/hamilton-10-19-19/
LOCATION:Hamilton Wetlands – Skatepark Lot\, 1200 Hamilton Parkway\, Novato\, CA\, 94949\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peep-flock-Don-McCullough-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191012T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191012T123000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190925T213052Z
UID:4046-1570872600-1570883400@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:San Rafael Bay Trail Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join guest leader Rich Cimino from Yellowbilled Tours and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for this walk on San Rafael’s Bay Trail. This is some of our closest access to the immediate bayshore\, giving us a chance to see shorebirds\, gulls\, and a wide variety of ducks and grebes. Species that favor open\, deep water like ruddy ducks\, scaups\, bufflehead\, and the larger Clark’s and western grebes can often be seen here. We will also look for the Puget Sound variety of White-Crowned Sparrow and other songbirds. For more on the birds found here\, check out the eBird Hotspot. \nBring binoculars (and a spotting scope if you have one); we will have a few extra loaner pairs of binos and a few scopes to share. The trail is level and easy walking (mostly paved) and extends about 1.5 miles to the north (3 miles round trip). Restrooms available at the trailhead. \nHorned grebe – Becky Matsubara\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. \nWild 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. \nDirections to meeting area: The walk will begin at 9:30 AM on Saturday\, October 12th at the southern end of the San Rafael Bay Trail section\, at the petite Jean and John Starkweather Shoreline Park\, located at the end of Francisco Blvd shortly before the Richmond Bridge entrance (see map below; if your GPS does not recognize the 2175 San Francisco Bay Trail address of the park\, you can also use 2171 Francisco Blvd for the adjacent office building). \nHeader photo: Spotted Sandpiper by Tony Gray
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/sr-bay-trail-10-12-19/
LOCATION:Starkweather Shoreline Park\, 2175 San Francisco Bay Trail\, San Rafael\, CA\, 94901\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Spotted-sandpiper-Tony-Gray-3x2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190928T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190928T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190903T183048Z
UID:3951-1569663000-1569670200@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Hamilton Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:American Avocet – Allan Hack\nJoin guest leader Daniel Edelstein and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for a fall walk on the Bay Trail at the Hamilton Wetlands. The expansive restored wetlands attract thousands of shorebirds\, waterfowl\, and other birds in the fall and winter months. Mudflats attract sandpipers\, plovers\, curlews and more; shallow water fills with stilts\, avocets\, yellowlegs\, and willets – nowhere else in Novato attracts a wider variety of shorebirds. Hamilton is also a great place for seeing raptors like kites\, harriers\, and falcons. \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This walk is now full; to get early notification of future events\, subscribe to email updates from Nature in Novato here. We’ll be meeting at the parking area of the South Novato Park near the end of Hangar Ave (see directions below). Note that this walk includes a few miles of leisurely walking on a flat\, level trail. There are portable toilets at the trailhead. \nWild 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. \nDirections to South Novato Park parking lot: From Highway 101 take the Ignacio/Bel Marin Keys exit. Stay right onto Nave Drive .7 mi\, go left at Main Gate Rd\, .4 mi\, Main Gate Rd becomes S Palm Dr\, .5mi\, turn right onto Hangar Ave. The parking lot is near the end of Hangar Ave. on the right beneath the solar panels. \nHeader photo: Sandpiper flock by Don McCullough. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/hamilton-9-28-19/
LOCATION:Hamilton – Sports Field Lot\, Hangar Ave and Maybeck St\, Novato\, CA\, 94949\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peep-flock-Don-McCullough-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190716T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190716T110000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180822T012510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190626T231535Z
UID:3726-1563271200-1563274800@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Family Birding at Novato Library
DESCRIPTION:House Finch – Risa George\nJoin the Nature in Novato team as we look for birds in the trees and creek around the Novato library! Kids and families are welcome at this beginner event\, where we’ll teach you how to find and recognize some of our most common birds. We’ll also discuss where and how different birds live: which ones eat acorns in the oak trees? Which catch insects over the creek? We’ll practice using binoculars\, identifying birds\, and understanding how each one is specially adapted to its unique place in nature. \nThis free event at the Novato Library will begin at 10 AM on Tuesday\, July 16 and last about one hour. No registration required. Please bring binoculars if you have them; we will have a limited number of pairs available to share. \nHeader photo: Dark-eyed junco by S. Hunt
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/library-birding-7-16-19/
LOCATION:Novato Library\, 1720 Novato Blvd\, Novato\, CA\, 94947\, United States
CATEGORIES:Talks,Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Junco-S-Hunt.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190714T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190714T100000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180627T213713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190708T172405Z
UID:3740-1563091200-1563098400@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Mount Burdell Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Lazuli Bunting – Larry Scheibel\nJoin Jack and Corrina for a summer walk on Mount Burdell. We’ll enjoy the tag end of the birdsong season and look for young birds from summer breeders\, including potential Bullock’s orioles\, lark sparrows\, house wrens\, lazuli buntings\, violet-green swallows\, and various flycatchers. We’ll also enjoy the year-round attractions of Mount Burdell\, including bluebirds\, acorn woodpeckers\, and the magnificent oak trees. \nThis walk is now fully booked. To learn more about the birds of the preserve and explore on your own\, check out our profile of Mount Burdell. Reserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. We’ll be meeting at the main trailhead on San Andreas Dr. (see below for directions) at 8:00 AM on Sunday\, July 14 and wrapping up around 10:00 AM. Note that this walk includes a few miles of leisurely walking on fire roads with a few hundred feet of gentle elevation gain. There are no restrooms or other facilities at this preserve. \nWild 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. \nHeader photo: Lark sparrow on Mount Burdell by Larry Scheibel
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/burdell-7-14-19/
LOCATION:Mount Burdell – San Andreas Trailhead\, 538-598 San Andreas Dr\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/lark-sparrow-larry-scheibel.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190707T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190707T100000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180627T232759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190620T221247Z
UID:3662-1562486400-1562493600@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Indian Tree Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join Jack for a small group walk at Indian Tree Open Space Preserve. This underappreciated preserve is lightly traveled and offers Novato’s only real conifer forest\, as well as a diverse broadleaf woodland and some more open areas near the trailhead. We’ll explore a small section of these worlds\, primarily looking and listening for forest songbirds and their young\, including purple finches\, Wilson’s warblers\, pacific-slope flycatchers\, Pacific wrens\, wood-pewees\, and more. Although the nesting season is well advanced\, we’ll start early enough in the day that we should still hear some bird song. To learn more about the birds of Indian Tree\, see our site profile.  \nThis walk is now fully booked. Reserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. We’ll be meeting at the main trailhead at the end of Vineyard Rd (the paved part – see below for location details) at 8:00 AM on Sunday\, July 7 and wrapping up around 10:00. Narrow trails and sneakier birds means we’re limiting this walk to a small group size so that everyone can hear and see the same birds. We’ll take our time walking around two miles\, with up to a few hundred feet of elevation gain in the shaded woods. Please leave pets at home and bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll have a few loaner pairs available. There are no restrooms or other facilities at this preserve. \nWild 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. \nPac-slope Flycatcher by BW\n 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/indian-tree-7-7-19/
LOCATION:Indian Tree Open Space Preserve\, 3221 Vineyard Rd\, Novato\, CA\, 94947\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Redwood-Feature.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190609T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190609T110000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180627T213713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190601T225536Z
UID:3425-1560069000-1560078000@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Mount Burdell Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Lazuli Bunting – Larry Scheibel\nJoin guest leader Heather Cameron and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for a summer walk on Mount Burdell. We’ll be enjoying the later part of the birdsong season and looking for young birds from summer breeders\, including potential Bullock’s orioles\, lark and chipping sparrows\, lazuli buntings\, and various swallows and flycatchers. We’ll also enjoy the year-round attractions of Mount Burdell\, including bluebirds\, acorn woodpeckers\, and the magnificent oak trees. \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This walk is now fully booked. To learn more about the birds of the preserve and explore on your own\, check out our profile of Mount Burdell. We’ll be meeting at the main trailhead on San Andreas Dr. (see below for directions) at 8:30 AM on Sunday\, June 9 and wrapping up around 11:00 AM. Note that this walk includes a few miles of leisurely walking on fire roads with a few hundred feet of gentle elevation gain. There are no restrooms or other facilities at this preserve. \nWild 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. \nHeader photo: Lark sparrow on Mount Burdell by Larry Scheibel
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/burdell-6-9-19/
LOCATION:Mount Burdell – San Andreas Trailhead\, 538-598 San Andreas Dr\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/lark-sparrow-larry-scheibel.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190526T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190526T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180529T232340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190424T215452Z
UID:3278-1558861200-1558870200@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Olompali Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Hooded orioles are sometimes seen around the garden area – Susie Kelly\nJoin guest leader Rich Cimino of Yellowbilled Tours and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited on this bird walk at Olompali State Historic Park on the north side of Novato. We’ll undertake an easy exploration of the historic garden areas and adjacent natural woodlands\, looking for birds such as hooded orioles\, Steller’s jays\, bluebirds and other flycatchers\, a variety of woodpeckers\, and many other summer songbirds. To learn more about the birds we might find on the trip\, see our profile of Olompali.  \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above; the walk is limited to a small group so that everyone can see and hear the birds and leaders. We’ll meet at Olompali at 9 AM on Sunday\, May 26\, and wrap up around 11:30 AM. Walking will be slow paced and mostly level\, with a short stretch of very mild elevation gain as we explore the garden area and lowest section of the loop trail. Portable toilets available at entrance. Note that there is an $8 entrance fee\, payable by cash\, for access to the State Park (park passes also accepted).  \nWild 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. \nHeader photo: Acorn woodpecker and Steller’s jay by Christine Hansen \n 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/olompali-5-26-19/
LOCATION:Olompali State Historic Park\, 8900 Redwood Blvd\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Woodie-glare-jay.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190504T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190504T110000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20190403T010408Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190426T015223Z
UID:3118-1556960400-1556967600@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Binocular Workshop at Stafford Lake
DESCRIPTION:Binoculars are the single most essential tool for observing birds and nature. Nothing else comes close. But poor quality optics or a few basic mistakes in their use can greatly diminish the potential rewards. \n\nHow should you adjust your binoculars for the difference between your two eyes? How should you adjust them if you’re wearing glasses?\nHow can you tell if your binoculars are functioning properly or need repair? Have you ever compared them to a really good pair to get a sense of their quality?\nIf you’re in the market for new binoculars\, what should you look for? What do the numbers mean in an “8×42” binocular? Is bigger better? Is higher power better?\n\nThis is where we can help. \nNikon Monarch 7 8×30 – lightweight and tough\, this is the most popular binocular in our store\nJoin guest expert Mike Freiberg from Nikon Sports Optics and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for this seminar on choosing and using binoculars to watch birds and nature at Novato’s Stafford Lake. We’ll start with an interactive presentation from Mike on binocular basics\, giving you the knowledge to use your optics most effectively or choose a new pair. Attendees will have the opportunity to try out a wide range of Nikon binoculars and get personalized advice from Mike and the team from Wild Birds Unlimited while enjoying a spring morning at idyllic Stafford Lake. \nWe’ll be enjoying the birds even during our stationary portion of the event\, with both waterbirds on and around the lake and a number of interesting spring migrant songbirds easily viewed around our seminar area\, notably Bullock’s orioles and western kingbirds. For the second hour of our session\, we’ll enjoy a short bird walk in the park as we look for a wider variety of species\, allowing participants more time to try out different binoculars in real life conditions and ask further questions as we go along. \nSpace is limited to allow for personalized attention and hands-on time with a variety of binoculars. If you wish to attend\, please select your number of attendees and click “Confirm RSVP” above. \nDetails and Tips:  \n\nStafford Lake normally has a summer parking fee of $10\, but the first Saturday of each month is the free access Measure A day. That’s this day!\nIf you already have binoculars\, definitely bring them to compare with the latest and greatest\, and to get personalized tips\, evaluation\, and advice from the experts.\nNote that pets are not allowed in the park. Restrooms are available at the meeting location\, where we will be for the first hour or so of the event.\nIf you’d like to start thinking about some of those questions we raised above\, check out our article on How to Use Binoculars. But if that’s too much info to absorb\, join the seminar and we’ll simplify and focus on your questions!\nIf you’d like to learn more about the birds we might encounter\, check out our park profile of Stafford Lake.\n\n \nLocation: Stafford Lake is located on the northwestern outskirts of Novato\, as you head west out of town on Novato Blvd. If you are coming from Highway 101\, take the Atherton/San Marin exit and head west on San Marin Dr. for about three miles. Turn right on Novato Blvd at the four-way stop after San Marin High School. Stafford Lake has a well-signed entrance and turn lane on the left hand side two-and-a-half miles from that intersection. After passing the entry kiosk (free on the first Saturday of each month)\, turn left and proceed to the end of the parking lot. We’ll be meeting at this left end of the parking area\, shaded by bird-laden oaks\, but with convenient proximity to lake views and restrooms. \nHeader photo: Stafford Lake by Noondueler on summitpost.org \n 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/stafford-binos-5-4-19/
LOCATION:Stafford Lake Park\, 3549 Novato Blvd\, Novato\, CA\, 94947\, United States
CATEGORIES:Talks,Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Stafford-header-noondueler.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190414T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190414T110000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20190327T211019Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190327T224551Z
UID:3024-1555230600-1555239600@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Indian Valley Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join Jack for this smaller-group walk at Novato’s Indian Valley Open Space Preserve. These mostly shaded trails on the north side of Big Rock Ridge provide homes for a wide variety of woodland songbirds and we’ll give our attention to the different songs to be heard on a spring morning: orange-crowned warblers\, purple finches\, warbling vireos\, and more. More open areas host ash-throated flycatchers\, blue-gray gnatcatchers\, and western bluebirds\, while the more densely wooded sections contain Wilson’s warblers\, pacific-slope flycatchers\, and a few pileated woodpeckers. Some of these small forest birds can be hard to see\, so come prepared to practice your birding by ear! To learn more about the birds and habitats we’ll encounter\, see our profile of Indian Valley. \nWilson’s Warbler – Jerry McFarland\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above; this walk is limited to a small group so that everyone can see and hear each other on narrow sections of trail. We’ll meet at 8:30 AM on Sunday\, April 14 and wrap up around 11:00 AM. We’ll be walking about three miles\, with no more than a few hundred feet of elevation change\, but note that there are some steep and rocky sections of trail. Restrooms are available at entrance. \nLocation: Meet at the entrance by the sports fields at Lot 6 of the College of Marin – Indian Valley Campus. To reach the Indian Valley Campus\, continue to the end of Ignacio Blvd in southern Novato; proceed through the campus to Lot 6\, the last lot on the right at the end of the public road. \nWild 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. \nHeader photo: Pileated woodpecker – Mick Thompson/Eastside Audubon
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/indian-valley-4-14-19/
LOCATION:Indian Valley Open Space\, 1800 Ignacio Blvd\, Novato\, CA\, 94949\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/pileated-mick-thompson-wide.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190408T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190408T110000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180627T232759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190327T211048Z
UID:3009-1554712200-1554721200@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:China Camp Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Orange-crowned Warbler – Skip Russell\nJoin Jack and Don for a bird walk at San Rafael’s China Camp State Park. We’ll be walking on a mostly level wooded trail as we listen to spring birdsong: juncos\, titmice\, Bewick’s wrens\, orange-crowned warblers\, purple finches\, warbling vireos\, and more. We’ll pass between more densely wooded areas with pleasant little creeks (where we’ll look for Wilson’s warblers and creepers) and more open areas (where we’ll hope to see gnatcatchers\, house wrens\, and swallows). Some of these small woodland birds can be hard to see in a group\, so be prepared to practice your birding by ear! We’ll also allow time to take in the wildflowers and views of San Pablo Bay as we travel leisurely along the trail. \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. \nWe plan on taking advantage of being in a group to employ a quick car shuttle for a point-to-point walk. The group will meet at 8:30 AM on Monday\, April 8 (our weekday schedule makes for quieter trails with less mountain bike activity\, but does mean that participants from Novato and northward should leave plenty of travel time for traffic on Highway 101) and we aim to be done by 11 AM. Our initial meeting place will be at the day use/picnic area before the campground; we will then travel in half of our cars the very short distance up the road (~.6 miles) to the Shoreline Trail entrance nearest Miwok Meadows. This short shuttle will allow us to take our time walking the approximately three miles of mostly level Shoreline Trail back to our initial location at a patient pace with lots of breaks for listening to birdsong. Additional details on the locations below: \n\nMeet by 8:30 at the day use/picnic area before the campground. 741 North San Pedro Rd marks the approximate location of the entrance kiosk on the road leading into the campground and our meeting location. You can pay the $5 parking fee by credit card here\, or by cash/check at our meeting location. Continue inwards on this entrance road\, past the kiosk\, to the parking area and picnic ground a short distance up on your right: if you reach the campground you have gone too far. If you are looking at a park trail map\, this is the unnamed parking area where the Powerline Fire Trail crosses the Shoreline Trail.\nWe will then travel to our second location in a mini\, two-minute carpool. 780 North San Pedro marks the approximate location of the roadside parking at this trailhead\, signed for the Shoreline Trail leading to Miwok Meadows. (If you are running truly and unavoidably late\, this is where we will be at 8:45\, heading towards the Meadows.)\n\nPlease leave pets at home and bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll have a few loaner pairs available. There are portable toilets at our first meeting location\, and restrooms at the nearby campground. \nWild 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. \nHeader photo: Dark-eyed junco by S. Hunt. They will be singing!
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/china-camp-4-8-19/
LOCATION:China Camp State Park\, 741 North San Pedro Rd\, San Rafael\, CA\, 94901\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Junco-S-Hunt.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190317T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190317T103000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180627T232759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190303T222553Z
UID:2871-1552811400-1552818600@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Indian Tree Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Varied thrush by Eugene Beckes\nJoin Jack for a small group walk at Indian Tree Open Space Preserve. This underappreciated preserve is lightly traveled and offers Novato’s only real redwood and Douglas-fir forest\, as well as a diverse broadleaf woodland and some more open areas near the trailhead. During this transition period from winter to spring\, we can still expect to see winter forest birds like varied thrushes and abundant hermit thrushes\, while spring birdsong will already be ramping up with a vibrant chorus of purple finches\, orange-crowned warblers\, and more anticipated. This field trip is particularly good for practicing identification by ear – sometimes these small forest birds are hard to see! To learn more about the birds of Indian Tree\, see our site profile.  \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This walk is fully booked; check back next month for future events or subscribe to the blog to be notified when they are posted. We’ll be meeting at the main trailhead at the end of Vineyard Rd (the paved part – see below for location details) at 8:30 AM on Sunday\, March 17 and wrapping up around 10:30. Narrow trails and sneakier birds means we’re limiting this walk to a small group size so that everyone can hear and see the same birds. We’ll take our time walking up to three miles\, with a few hundred feet of gradual elevation gain in the shaded woods. Please leave pets at home and bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll have a few loaner pairs available. There are no restrooms or other facilities at this preserve. \nWild 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. \n 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/indian-tree-3-17-19/
LOCATION:Indian Tree Open Space Preserve\, 3221 Vineyard Rd\, Novato\, CA\, 94947\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Redwood-Feature.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190303T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190303T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20190105T230757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190218T175341Z
UID:2743-1551605400-1551614400@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Deer Island Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Say’s Phoebe – Mick Thompson\nJoin 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. \nFor more on the birds you can expect here\, see our profile of Deer Island or check recent sightings on eBird. \nBring 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. \nReserve 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.  \nWild 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. \nDirections 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. \nHeader image: Deer Island’s green trails in springtime freshness. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/deer-island-3-3-19/
LOCATION:Deer Island Open Space Preserve\, 320 Deer Island Ln\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/deer-island-trail-blog.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190215T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190215T103000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20190105T230757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190214T010307Z
UID:2671-1550221200-1550226600@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Pacheco Pond Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:This walk has been CANCELLED due to weather. In addition to the possibility of direct rain\, parts of the trail have been inundated\, the remainder is quite muddy\, and the high water levels have resulted in many ducks moving to other nearby\, seasonally-inundated areas. Look for another Pacheco Pond walk next fall\, before winter rains give the ducks so many choices! \nJoin Jack and Tacy from Wild Birds Unlimited for this walk at Novato’s Pacheco Pond. This less-visited neighbor to the Hamilton Wetlands offers habitat for a variety of winter ducks and year-round waterbirds that prefer vegetated fresh-to-brackish water. The first category includes shovelers\, canvasback\, ruddy ducks\, mallards\, gadwall\, bufflehead\, and more. The second category offers us a variety of herons and egrets\, kingfishers\, gallinules\, Virginia rails\, and soras. This is also a potential spot to see terns and peregrine falcons at any point during the year. For more on the birds you can expect here\, see our profile of Pacheco Pond or check recent sightings on eBird. \nDirections to Pacheco Pond:  According to Google\, 700 Bel Marin Keys Boulevard in Novato seems to land you right in front of the pond\, though the pond itself doesn’t really have a numbered address. To get there\, take the Bel Marin Keys exit from Highway 101 and travel east on Bel Marin Keys Blvd for two miles\, passing through the commercial/industrial section and then arriving at a small parking area on the right\, facing the pond. \nBlack-Crowned Night-Heron – Allan Hack\nHeader image: White pelicans at Pacheco Pond by Mark Gunn.
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/pacheco-2-15-19/
LOCATION:Pacheco Pond\, 700 Bel Marin Keys Boulevard\, Novato\, CA\, 94949\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/pelicans-mark-gunn-header.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190203T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190203T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20190105T230757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190119T201148Z
UID:2558-1549186200-1549193400@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Las Gallinas Ponds Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join guest leader Mark Schulist and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for this walk at San Rafael’s Las Gallinas Ponds. This water treatment ponds offer year-round\, food-rich waters that attract a wide variety of birds and this is the busiest season of all. We’ll see hundreds of ducks\, as well as other waterbirds\, raptors\, and songbirds. This is one of the best places to start learning about birds\, with a large variety of distinctive\, easy to see species at relatively close distances. To learn more about the birds of Las Gallinas\, see our site profile. \nMute swan – Philip Goddard\nBring binoculars if you have them and please leave pets at home; we will have a few extra loaner pairs of binos and a few spotting scopes to share. We will be walking up to two miles at a slow pace on a level trail.\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This walk is now fully booked; check back soon for additional events.  \nWild 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. \nDirections to meeting area: To reach the Las Gallinas Ponds\, head east on Smith Ranch Road and continue to the end of the road where it enters McInnis Park. Immediately after crossing the train tracks\, turn left (following the small sign for the wildlife ponds) and continue until you reach the small parking area across the bridge from the ponds. The address for the adjacent water treatment facility is 300 Smith Ranch Road\, which will essentially take you there – just park at the public parking area outside of the facility. \nHeader image: A pair of common mergansers at Las Gallinas\, by Doug Greenberg on Flickr. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/las-gallinas-2-3-19/
LOCATION:Las Gallinas Ponds\, 300 Smith Ranch Rd\, San Rafael\, CA\, 94903\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/mergansers-doug-greenberg.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190113T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190113T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181217T225021Z
UID:2479-1547386200-1547395200@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Bahia Lagoon Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join guest leader Heather Cameron and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for this walk at the Bahia Lagoon in northern Novato. This pond near the mouth of the Petaluma River is a local hotspot for common goldeneye (with a few of the less common Barrow’s goldeneye often present)\, as well as other diving ducks and grebes\, raptors including kestrels\, kites\, and harriers\, and a variety of other wetland and open country songbirds including song and Savannah sparrows\, Say’s phoebes\, and western meadowlarks. After observing the water birds for an hour and a half or so\, we will briefly adjourn to the very nearby Bahia trailhead of the Rush Creek Open Space Preserve\, from where we can see some different ducks and shorebirds on the tidal mudflats as well as woodland songbirds for our remaining hour. \nBring binoculars if you have them and please leave pets at home; we will have a few extra loaner pairs of binos and a few spotting scopes to share. We will be walking a short distance on level trails at a slow pace\, with no challenges other than winter birding’s possibilities of cool temperatures and a few puddles. (And we’ve even scheduled this as a rare afternoon walk to try to avoid the chilliest morning conditions!) \nBufflehead by Doug Greenberg\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This event is fully booked; please see our other upcoming events here.  \nWild 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. \nDirections to meeting area: To reach Bahia\, take the Atherton exit off 101 in northern Novato. Travelling east on Atherton\, turn left on Bugeia Ln\, which turns into Bahia Dr. At the end of Bahia Dr\, turn right on Topaz and continue to the end\, where you can park by the club house\, which has an address you can use for a convenient GPS reference at 3008 Topaz Dr\, Novato\, and on the adjacent dead-end roadside. \nHeader photo: common goldeneye by zenbikescience. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/bahia-1-13-19/
LOCATION:Bahia Lagoon\, 3008 Topaz Dr\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Common-Goldeneye-zenbikescience-wide.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181209T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181209T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181128T234822Z
UID:2348-1544344200-1544355000@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:San Rafael Bay Trail Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join guest leader Rich Cimino from Yellowbilled Tours and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for this walk on San Rafael’s Bay Trail. This is some of our closest access to the immediate bayshore\, giving us a chance to see shorebirds\, gulls\, and a wide variety of ducks and grebes. Species that favor open\, deep water like ruddy ducks\, canvasbacks\, bufflehead\, and the larger Clark’s and western grebes can often be seen here. For more on the birds found here\, check out the eBird Hotspot. \nBring binoculars (and a spotting scope if you have one!); we will have a few extra loaner pairs of binos and a few scopes to share. The trail is level and easy walking (mostly paved) and extends about 1.5 miles to the north (3 miles round trip). \nHorned grebe – Becky Matsubara\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. \nWild 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. \nDirections to meeting area: We will be meeting at the southern end of the San Rafael Bay Trail section\, at the petite Jean and John Starkweather Shoreline Park\, located at the end of Francisco Blvd shortly before the Richmond Bridge entrance (see map below; if your GPS does not recognize the 2175 San Francisco Bay Trail address of the park\, you can also use 2171 Francisco Blvd for the adjacent office building). \nHeader photo: Spotted Sandpiper by Tony Gray
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/sr-bay-trail-12-9-18/
LOCATION:Starkweather Shoreline Park\, 2175 San Francisco Bay Trail\, San Rafael\, CA\, 94901\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Spotted-sandpiper-Tony-Gray-3x2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181130T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181130T103000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181031T160244Z
UID:2208-1543568400-1543573800@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Loch Lomond Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join leaders Jack and Angela from Wild Birds Unlimited for a late fall walk at San Rafael’s Loch Lomond Marina. We’ll be particularly looking out for rocky shoreline birds like oystercatchers\, black turnstones\, and spotted sandpipers\, but we’re also certain to see various ducks and other waterbirds as we explore this bayfront trail. To learn more about the birds of Loch Lomond\, see our full site profile. We will be walking about a mile at a very slow pace along a level trail; restroom available at trailhead. \nBlack turnstone – Andy Reago\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This event is fully booked; please see our other upcoming events here.  \nWild 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. \nDirections to meeting area: The Loch Lomond Marina is located immediately off of Point San Pedro Rd. about 1.6 miles east of downtown San Rafael. Address for GPS is 110 Loch Lomond Dr. Upon entering the marina\, proceed to the far left end of the parking area\, where we will meet by the signed trailhead leading out on the jetty. \nHeader photo: Black Oystercatcher by Nicole Beaulac
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/loch-lomond-11-30-18/
LOCATION:Loch Lomond Marina\, 110 Loch Lomond Dr\, San Rafael\, CA\, 94901\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/oystercatcher-nicole-beaulac-header.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181104T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181104T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180320T225907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181029T200259Z
UID:2041-1541322000-1541331000@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Hamilton Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join guest leader David Herlocker and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited for a fall walk on the Bay Trail at Hamilton Wetlands. The expansive restored wetlands attract thousands of shorebirds\, waterfowl\, and other birds in the fall and winter months. Mudflats attract sandpipers\, plovers\, curlews and more; shallow water fills with stilts\, avocets\, yellowlegs\, and willets – nowhere else in Novato attracts a wider variety of shorebirds. Hamilton is also a great place for seeing raptors like kites\, harriers\, and falcons. \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. We’ll be meeting at the parking area of the South Novato Park near the end of Hangar Ave (see directions below). Note that this walk includes a few miles of leisurely walking on a flat\, level trail. There are portable toilets at the trailhead. \nWild 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. \nDirections to South Novato Park parking lot: From Highway 101 take the Ignacio/Bel Marin Keys exit. Stay right onto Nave Drive .7 mi\, go left at Main Gate Rd\, .4 mi\, Main Gate Rd becomes S Palm Dr\, .5mi\, turn right onto Hangar Ave. The parking lot is on the right beneath the solar panels. \nHeader photo: Sandpiper flock by Don McCullough. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/hamilton-11-4-18/
LOCATION:Hamilton – Sports Field Lot\, Hangar Ave and Maybeck St\, Novato\, CA\, 94949\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peep-flock-Don-McCullough-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181006T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181006T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180529T232340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180928T021339Z
UID:2037-1538816400-1538827200@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Olompali Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join guest leader Rich Cimino of Yellowbilled Tours and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited on this bird walk at Olompali State Historic Park on the north side of Novato. We’ll pass briefly through the historic garden areas to reach a ~2.5 mile loop trail through mixed woodland where we’ll look for a variety of fall songbirds\, raptors\, and other species. To learn more about the birds we might find on the trip\, see our profile of Olompali.  \nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above; the walk is limited to a small group so that everyone can see and hear the birds and leaders. We’ll meet at Olompali at 9 AM on Saturday\, October 6th and wrap up around noon (you may want to bring a lunch to enjoy in the pleasant picnic areas after the walk). We will be walking a little under three miles with a few hundred feet of elevation gain. Portable toilets available at entrance. Note that there is an $8 entrance fee\, payable by cash\, for access to the State Park (park passes also accepted).  \nWild 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. \nHeader photo: Acorn woodpecker and Steller’s jay by Christine Hansen \n 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/olompali-10-6-18/
LOCATION:Olompali State Historic Park\, 8900 Redwood Blvd\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Woodie-glare-jay.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20180928T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20180928T120000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180828T220642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180925T004250Z
UID:1881-1538125200-1538136000@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Hamilton Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Fall shorebird migration is now in full swing\, and there is no better local area for large numbers and diversity of plovers\, sandpipers\, stilts\, avocets\, and much more than at the restored Hamilton Wetlands in Novato. By late September\, waterfowl and raptor numbers will also be increasing\, while it’s also a fine time for special passing migrants like Vaux’s swifts and red-necked phalaropes. On this special “behind the scenes” trip\, we’ll travel in carpools on levees roads normally closed to public access from where we’ll get unique views of the wetlands as we approach the breach to San Pablo Bay. Our guides will be David Sexton\, long-time bird monitor throughout the restoration project\, and Jack from Wild Birds Unlimited\, who also volunteers with the Hamilton bird monitoring. To learn more about some of the birds we’ll see\, take a look at our Hamilton Wetlands profile. \nSemipalmated Plover by Mick Thompson\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. This trip and waitlist is now fully booked. Check back for further trips to Hamilton with us later in the season.  \nWe will be meeting at the skate park parking lot at 1200 Hamilton Parkway in Novato at 9 AM on Friday\, September 28th. From there we will gather into as few vehicles as possible before continuing into the wetlands restoration area. We will start with a  brief visit with Christina McWhorter\, director of the restoration project\, to learn more about the ongoing work to welcome native plants and wildlife back to the area (last restrooms available here at the nursery). We’ll spend the bulk of our time birding near our convoy of cars at a few stops along the levee\, with perhaps a short walk at adjacent Pacheco Pond if we have extra time before getting back to the starting location around noon. \nThis field trip will potentially have a small amount of level walking\, but will mostly involve slow travel by car with birding at designated stopping points. Participants should be prepared to stay for the whole duration of the walk and to carpool\, as we will want to compress into as few vehicles as possible. Please leave pets at home and bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll have a few loaner pairs available as well as a few spotting scopes to share. \nWild 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. \nHeader image: A flock of “peeps” (least or western sandpipers) takes flight\, photo by Don McCullough on Flickr. I love watching those big undulating flocks – Hamilton is the place to see them around here. 
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/hamilton-9-28-18/
LOCATION:Hamilton Wetlands – Skatepark Lot\, 1200 Hamilton Parkway\, Novato\, CA\, 94949\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peep-flock-Don-McCullough-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20180818T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20180818T110000
DTSTAMP:20260423T143255
CREATED:20180801T002949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180801T003449Z
UID:1721-1534581000-1534590000@natureinnovato.com
SUMMARY:Rush Creek Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:Fall shorebird migration is now in full swing\, with increasing numbers of yellowlegs\, stilts\, avocets\, plovers\, and possibly phalaropes filling local wetlands. For this walk at Rush Creek Open Space Preserve in northern Novato\, we’ll be walking out on the Pinheiro Fire Road for about 1.3 miles\, looking at birds along the way\, to reach Cemetery Marsh\, a waterbird hotspot where we’ll spend some time before returning the way we came. You can read more about the birds of Rush Creek here. \nRed-necked phalarope – Jason Crotty\nReserve your space by selecting your number of participants and clicking on “Confirm RSVP” above. We’ll be meeting at the main trailhead on Binford Road – see below for location details – at 8:30 AM on Saturday\, August 18 and wrapping up around 11:00. We’ll take our time walking a little less than three miles on a generally level fire road. Please leave pets at home and bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll have a few loaner pairs available as well as a spotting scope to share. There are no restrooms or other facilities at this preserve. \nWild 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. \nTo reach Rush Creek\, exit Highway 101 at Atherton Ave in Novato. Heading east on Atherton\, make an immediate sharp left onto Binford Rd\, a frontage road running parallel to 101. Look for the trailhead and roadside parking 60 yards after turning onto Binford.
URL:https://natureinnovato.com/event/rush-creek-8-18-18/
LOCATION:Rush Creek Open Space Preserve\, 8186 Binford Rd\, Novato\, CA\, 94945\, United States
CATEGORIES:Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureinnovato.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/curlew-matthew-paulson-1210.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wild Birds Unlimited":MAILTO:wbumarin@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR