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Field Institute class: Birding for Beginners and the Bird-Curious

Birding for Beginners and the Bird-Curious

Class date / time: Saturday, November 23, 2019 - 8:30am to 12:30pm

Fee: $45

Non-Member Fee: $55

Calling all new or novice birders! Join us for a beginners birding walk exploring the bird life surrounding the Bear Valley Visitor Center within the Point Reyes National Seashore. We’ll saunter around the picnic and open areas, Morgan Horse Ranch, and depending on where the birds lead us, one of the nearby trails. We want to help and inspire bird-curious beginners to get out and appreciate the bird world! Don't be shy if you've never birded before - that's what we're here for! We’ll start with a tutorial on using binoculars and field guides, followed by an introductory discussion about birding. As we explore the area, stopping frequently to study the birds we encounter, we’ll discuss a variety of topics, such as: Techniques for locating birds, what sorts of details to notice when observing a bird, characteristics shared by common bird families, species identification, bird vocalizations, bird behavior, bird habitats, suggestions on how to continue learning about birds, and helpful resources. We’ll have the opportunity to observe and study a variety of birds, including raptors, sparrows, woodpeckers, jays, blackbirds, wintering warblers, and other songbirds.

Note: Though we’ll be walking slowly, for those with mobility issues, please be aware that we may be walking on unpaved trails.

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