Take Flight! Beginning Birding for Adults

Discover the fascinating world of birding through this engaging and interactive introductory class!

The day will commence with an examination of bird materials such as bones, feathers, skulls, and nests. Following that, we will cover the basics of field identification before embarking on a birding expedition with our binoculars to explore our feathered friends.

As we stroll through the Bear Valley Visitor Center area and Giacomini Wetlands, our focus will be on observing and listening, delving into topics such as identification, migration, adaptations, nesting, habitat and the interconnection of birds with other animals, including humans.

Throughout the day, we will search for a variety of birds, including Western Bluebirds, California Quail, Acorn Woodpeckers, Hawks, Waterfowl, Shorebirds, and Waders. The class promises to provide ample opportunities to observe and learn fascinating facts about birds in the park, your neighborhood, and beyond. Join us for an exciting day of birding worth experiencing!

Sharon Barnett is co-owner of Marin Nature Adventures, a science teacher at Marin Country Day School, a hiking instructor for the College of Marin, and one of Marin’s most dynamic interpretive naturalists. Sharon is the 2011 Terwilliger Environmental Award winner for excellence in environmental education. She volunteers with many organizations and is an active member of the North Bay Bear Collaborative, and most recently founded the California Toad Crew (CalToadCrew.org).

P hoto Credit: Jessica Weinberg

Details

-We will be meeting at the Red Barn Classroom in Bear Valley, Point Reyes

- Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in

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

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

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

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

- Sales end 48 hours before the start date.

- Waitlists are available when the class sells out

What to Bring

Binoculars (if you have them). We will have a limited number available to borrow.

Day Pack

Lunch

Warm Variable Weather Clothing

Hiking Shoes

Water Bottle

Notebook and Pen/Field Journal

Eventbrite Confirmation Email

Camera (Optional)

About the PRNSA Field Institute

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

Interested in becoming a member of PRNSA? Click Here!

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

For any questions, please email us at [email protected].

COVID-19 Field Institute Guidelines

Please respect the following COVID-19 procedures:

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

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

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

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

· Masks are optional at your discretion

· Please bring your own food and water

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

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

Host or Publisher Point Reyes National Seashore Association