Birding by Ear: Lakeside Riverpark

Sunday, January 25, 2026

9-11am

Birding by Ear for Beginners (and the Rest of Us!) at Lakeside Riverpark!

Part 5: "Read" Sounds on Spectrograms

Leaders: Willow Eichler and Elena Adams

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. We’ll learn how to read a spectrogram and compare spectrograms of the birds we encounter along the walk. We'll discuss the Merlin app, both its strengths and weaknesses in using spectrograms to analyze bird sounds.

Bring binoculars, hats, sunscreen, and water. The trail is relatively flat and wide. There are a few benches along the way and a large observation deck where we can sit and observe from. 

From National Audubon's article "Start Using Spectrograms to ’Read’ Bird Songs and Calls," the fifth article in a series on Birding by Ear: "A spectrogram acts as a species’ signature. Each one may have minor variations, but breaking down the overall pattern should give you a good idea of what bird you’re listening to. Try it, and it won’t be long before you can impress your friends with your ability to identify sounds on sight.” 

Capped at 24 participants. Registration required.