Native Plants: Birds and Blooms Aiken Canyon

Park Description: The habitat of Aiken Canyon Preserve is mixed grassland and woodland. Lower areas of the park feature pinyons and junipers and host birds such as the Juniper Titmouse and Spotted Towhee (pictured). Upper elevations give way to ponderosas and douglas-firs where nuthatches and woodpeckers abound. We will also likely see hummingbirds, flycatchers, vireos, jays, chickadees, warblers, tanagers, and grosbeaks. Equal attention will be given to the native plant species that form these ecosystems.

L eaders: Allisa Zurbuchen, Irene Shonle, Barb Valenti

W hen/Where to Meet: Meet at the Aiken Canyon Preserve trailhead parking area. Class will begin at 7:30am sharp.

What to Bring (Suggested): Binoculars, Flora of Colorado by Jennifer Ackerfield; hand lens (10X or greater), daypack, bug spray, water, snacks, rain/sun/wind protection. Consider bringing trekking poles if you think you may benefit from them, though the trails are relatively flat.

Special Instructions: Please come prepared for moderate to strenuous walking on hot, cold, windy, snowy or rainy days.

L ocation Address: 3350 Turkey Canon Ranch Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80926
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gueJjdkCtzTZC9DF9

Contact [email protected] with questions.

Host or Publisher Colorado State University Extension: El Paso County