Birding by Ear: Lake Murray

Sunday, September 21

9 - 11 a

Birding by Ear for Beginners (and the Rest of Us!) at Lake Murray

Step 1: Start Listening for Songs and Calls

Leaders: Willow Eichler and others

Learn to enjoy and identify birds by ear! This skill allows you to more easily identify the birds that are all around you, especially when they are hiding under cover in chaparral or high up in riparian woodland treetops. On our walk, we will stop frequently and really listen in order to understand the different kinds of sounds birds make. We will identify birds as we hear them, with practice and tips on distinguishing between similar sounding species, learning the difference between songs and calls, and advice on how to remember what you hear.

Bring binoculars, hats, sunscreen, and water. The trail is relatively flat: Some slight up and down, but mostly flat and wide trails all around the lake. Substrate is a mix of concrete, asphalt, and soil/sand (looser soils avoidable as necessary by ability). Restroom facilities with flush toilets and water fountains are available. There are several shaded benches that we can sit and observe from, sit and work / brainstorm together.

From National Audubon's article "How to Start Identifying Birds by Their Songs and Calls," the first article in a series on Birding by Ear: "For birders, learning to recognize birds by their voices is tremendously valuable. People may speak of “birding by ear” as if it were different from normal birding, but it’s not; it’s something you’re already and always doing. ... Experts never stop birding by ear, and for good reason: Sound is very often the best way to detect a bird’s presence."

Capped at 12 participants. Registration required.

Location Details:

Driving directions: From the 8 Freeway, exit at 70th/Lake Murray and follow directions to Lake Murray Blvd. Continue up Lake Murray Dr., then turn left on Kiowa Dr. Continue to the end of Kiowa Dr. into the driveway to the parking lot.

Transit Directions: Take the MTS 14 to the Lake Murray Dr. and Kiowa Dr. exit.