Events

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A quiet stroll looking for photogenic birds and building a community of birders who like to take pictures of birds

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

The SoCal Salt Works and the South Bay Wildlife Refuge consists of a series of salt
ponds used to extract salt from seawater by evaporation. This area is normally closed to
the public, except for once-per-month guided walks led by San Diego Bird Alliance
docents during the bird non-breeding fall and winter months.

Learn how to participate in the CBC by joining us for a short training session.

Join us for an up to 3-mile round trip along the Lakeside River Park Trail as we search for winter season visitors!

The SoCal Salt Works and the South Bay Wildlife Refuge consists of a series of salt ponds used to extract salt from seawater by evaporation.

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A quiet stroll looking for photogenic birds and building a community of birders who like to take pictures of birds

Photographer Max Brashears will share ideas on how to tell stories with the photos you take.

A book club for bird brains and nature nuts!

Join us in a game to know local wildlife and habitat. All ages and abilities welcome!

Spend this fall's Sundays on the beach! Join the San Diego Bird Alliance in our mission to protect and celebrate the natural wonders of the San Diego River Mouth.

La Jolla Cove is a scenic spot where the Pacific Ocean meets a rocky coastline.

A nature walk for all people who seek non-judgemental community, if you identify as LGBTQIA+ or not

Spend this fall's Sundays on the beach! Join the San Diego Bird Alliance in our mission to protect and celebrate the natural wonders of the San Diego River Mouth.

A webinar with Cat Topia about how Catios are good for cats and good for birds.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

This is a restricted access property in the Cuyamaca Mountains, never previously visited by us, owned by the San Diego River Park Foundation.

One of the most popular trips we offer, with very limited space available. Once full, please contact jhajj@sandiegobirdalliance.org to be added to a waitlist. We will contact you if space opens up.

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A quiet stroll looking for photogenic birds and building a community of birders who like to take pictures of birds. This location is accessible for people with disabilities.

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Walk in the 75th Anniversary Celebration Parade!

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

Dairy Mart Ponds are an outstanding birding spot in our south county with a bird blind, elevated viewing sites, and improved trails.

Register through the WFO conference registration page

Join us for an evening at the Kendall-Frost Marsh, where you’ll hear firsthand insights from a conservationist as the sun sets over the tranquil marshland.

Come to Torrey Pines Conservancy for a walk along the beach or the Guy Fleming trail.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

This field trip is intended for beginning/fledgling birders and visits the northwest side of Lake Murray

Old Mission Dam is a favorite destination for birding throughout the year.

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Celebrate Latino Conservation Week with a ride along the San Diego River, with San Diego County Bicycle Coalition and San Diego BIrd Alliance

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

Este año, SDAS está celebrando el quinto año creando conexiones y promoviendo la conservación en la comunidad latina, y este septiembre tendremos una gran celebración llamada Un Viaje Por Los Humedales el dia 21 de septiembre del 2024 de 9:00 a. m. a 1:00 p. m. en South Bay, Chula Vista Bayfront Park, con nuestros socios San Diego National Wildlife Refuge, Ocean Connectors, Living Coast Discovery Center, San Diego Natural History Museum, Fauna del Noroeste, San Diego Coastkeeper y Outdoor Outreach.
¡Celebraremos la belleza y el valor de nuestros humedales costeros!

This year SDAS is celebrating our 5th year making connections and promoting conservation in the Latino community, and this September we will be having a big celebration called Journey Through the Wetlands on September 21, 2024 from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm in South Bay, Chula Vista Bayfront Park, with our partners San Diego National Wildlife Refuge, Ocean Connectors, Living Coast Discovery Center, San Diego Natural History Museum, Fauna del Noroeste, San Diego Coastkeeper, and Outdoor Outreach.

We will be celebrating the beauty and the value of our coastal wetlands!

Learn about the moths that live in Famosa Slough in this fun evening activity, great for all ages! Spanish and English speaking guides will be present.
Aprende sobre las polillas que viven en Famosa Slough, en esta divertida actividad nocturna, ¡ideal para todas las edades! Estarán presentes guías que hablan español e inglés.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

The San Diego River Estuary adjacent to Robb Field is one of the most productive and rewarding birding sites in our region.

Nurture your love and knowledge of birds with a beginner’s birding class designed to connect you with the birding community and improve your skills in bird identification. We will spend quality time observing and discussing birds and their behavior, to build your understanding of the sights, sounds, behaviors, and natural history of a selection of our feathered friends.

Learn about the moths that live in Famosa Slough in this fun evening activity, great for all ages!

¡Celebremos juntos el Día de la Biodiversidad de California! Regístrese enviando un correo electrónico a la guardaparque Nancy Fernández a Nancy_Fernandez@fws.gov.
Let’s celebrate California Biodiversity Day together! Sign up by emailing Park Ranger Nancy Fernandez at Nancy_Fernandez@fws.gov.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Author Arjan Dwarshuis will talk about his book, The (Big) Year that Flew By: Twelve months, Six Continents and the Ultimate Birding Record.

Author Arjan Dwarshuis will talk about his book, The (Big) Year that Flew By: Twelve months, Six Continents and the Ultimate Birding Record.

An Invitation to Explore the Wild Side of Our Shoreline with Beautiful PB

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

The goal of this course is to prepare volunteers for leadership experiences with SDAS, primarily as Outing leaders. You'll have the opportunity to explore and try on several different leadership styles within a supportive, participatory environment. You'll use some of the forms and planning tools that SDAS makes available to its leaders. And you'll plan and execute an outing that can be scheduled and promoted by SDAS in the 2024-25 field trip season.  Sponsored by Birdfy.

Come to Torrey Pines Conservancy for a walk along the beach or the Guy Fleming trail.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

Morning birding at San Elijo Lagoon, followed by lunch at Modern Times in Encinitas

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Learn about the moths that live in Famosa Slough in this fun evening activity, great for all ages!

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges. LGBTQ+ Friendly

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Photo walk in Lake Hodges! Bring a Camera and comfy shoes!

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Bird Sit at Silverwood
Registration Required.

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

Join Torrey Pines Conservancy Docents and SDAS guides for birding at beautiful Torrey Pines

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

"Quick! Three Beers!"

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Warwicks and USD's College of Art and Science present Amy Tan in conversation with Noelle Norton

Join our educational docents for a guided dog-friendly walk of the River Mouth!

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

Shorebirds in salt marsh mudflats. Bring your cameras!

Help our Native Wildflowers thrive by removing invasive weeds at Silverwood!

Join SDAS and the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition for a bike ride to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Photo walk in Lake Hodges! Bring a Camera and comfy shoes!

In this workshop, Tammah Watts- Certified Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide, Licensed therapist (LMFT), Certified CA Naturalist, best-selling author, and birder-invites you to experience birds in a whole new way wherever you are and whenever you wish

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Sunday, April 21, 2024, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Stonewall Mine and Lake Cuyamaca
Google Maps: Stonewall Mine, GPS: 32.982904, -116.569872
Leaders: Peter Thomas, Teri Hurst, and others
Lake Cuyamaca and the Stonewall Mine area give us a chance to sample mountain and spring migrating species. We will start at the old mine shaft, and then venture out on trails through oak
and pine woodlands. Possible species include Wild Turkey, various Raptors, Oak Titmouse, Mountain Chickadee and Nuthatches. Migrating warblers could include Yellow-rumped, Black-
throated Gray, Townsend’s, Hermit, and Wilson’s. Views of Lake Cuyamaca should provide Wood Ducks, Mallards, and other waterfowl. Purple Martins have been seen from this area in April during past years. Restrooms are at the Paso Pacheco Campground, just to the south on Highway 79. NOTE: A California State Parks pass, or a day pass (now $10 –available at the trailhead), is required to be able to park either at the Mine or at the Campground. Capped at 15 participants.

Directions: From San Diego, go east on Highway 8, turn north on Highway 79. About 1 mile north of the Paso Pacheco Campground area, watch for the turnoff to the right for
the Stonewall Mine. Meet at the end of the road.

Registration required.

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

A gathering of bird photography enthusiasts
Registration Required.

Sunday, April 14, 2024, 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Birding by Ear for Beginners (and the Rest of Us Also) at MTRP – Lake Kumeyaay
Google Maps: Lake Kumeyaay Day Use Parking Lot, 32.8394, -117.0237
Leaders: Sandy Kuntz, Peter Thomas. 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 resident birds and spring migrants 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. Restrooms available at the campground. Bring binoculars, hats, sunscreen, and water.
Capped at 12 participants.

Registration required.

Directions: From Highway 52, exit on Mast Blvd., turn easterly .1 mile, then right on West Hills
Parkway. Proceed about ¾ miles to Mission Gorge Road, go right again, and keep right to
proceed on Father Junipero Serra Trail. Turn right the stop sign at Bushy Hill Rd. and follow
signs to the Day Use Parking Lot.

Birding on a forested trail just north of Pine Valley

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges. LGBTQ+ Friendly

Google Maps: Lake Murray Little League Fields, GPS: 37.790, -117.044
Leaders: Martha Wild
Located just north of La Mesa, Lake Murray is part of Mission Trails Regional Park. It attracts a large variety of waterfowl, herons, gulls, and shorebirds. Its reeds and tree-lined riparian borders blend into coastal scrub, providing a diverse habitat for many other birds. Come join us for a 3 hour stroll around the lake and along some of the paths along the edges, to take in the beauty and habits of the birds in this diverse ecosystem.

Directions: From I-8 go north on Lake Murray Blvd. to Baltimore Drive and turn left. Continue for 1 mile and turn left on Jackson Drive. Turn left onto Golfcrest. Go another mile to the Mission Trails Park entrance on the left. Meet in the parking area near the Little League field bleachers.

From Highway 52 going east, exit on Mast Blvd. Turn left, go under the highway to
the stoplight at West Hills Blvd., and turn right. Proceed to Mission Gorge Blvd., turn right and proceed over the hill to Golfcrest. Go left and proceed beyond 2 stoplights to the park entrance on the left as above. Meet in the parking area as above.
Registration required.

Nurture your love and knowledge of birds with a beginner’s birding class designed to connect you with the birding community and improve your skills in bird identification.
Spring Course- signup begins April 1, 2024
Thursday zoom sessions begin April 11 and end  May 16, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Sunday field trips begin April 21 and end May 19 8 am to 10 am

Birding in El Monte Park : 88 acre park with spectacular views of the “Monte” – El Capitan.
Registration Required.
Thursday, April 11, 2024, 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
El Monte County Park
Google Maps: El Monte County Park, GPS: 32.891102, -116.849664
Leaders: Peter Thomas, Millie Basden, and others

El Monte County Park on the road to El Capitan Reservoir and Dam is a wonderful 88 acre park with spectacular views of the “Monte” – El Capitan. There is a mixture of grassy lawns, native oaks, and chapparal slopes. Birds that we hope to spy include Wild Turkey, Rufous-crowned Sparrows, California Thrashers, and some of the Spring migrants that spend time in our County.
Restrooms available. Capped at 12 participants.

Directions: From Highway 52 or 8 going east, take Highway 67 north to the stoplight at Mapleview in Lakeside, go right, continue to El Monte Rd and go left. Continue up the valley to the parking lot on the left. We will meet and walk from there.

Photo walk in Lake Hodges! Bring a Camera and comfy shoes!

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

A birding outing at local natural park. This field trip may be accessible for people with mobility challenges.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

A gathering of bird photography enthusiasts at a behind the gates location!
Registration Required.

Clear brush to prevent wildfires

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Bird Conservation Through Coffee: Enjoy a delicious cup of Caffe Ibis’ Bird Friendly® certified coffee while discovering the amazing efforts happening on Bird-Friendly coffee farms. Explore how these farms protect vital habitats for migratory birds and gain insights into spotting Bird Friendly products that champion both quality and conservation.

Light pollution is threatening wildlife and ecosystems. Learn how migrating birds are negatively impacted by artificial light at night and how the ‘Lights Out, San Diego!’ campaign promotes simple lighting changes that allow birds to rest, nest, and travel safely along the Pacific Flyway. DarkSky San Diego County and the San Diego Audubon Society work together to protect the natural night sky for both birds and people.

Since 1972, Project Wildlife’s dedicated staff and volunteers have given injured, orphaned, and sick wild animals a second chance at life. This commitment to helping wild animals has grown tremendously and Project Wildlife is now one of the largest wildlife rehabilitation organizations in the country. Join us to learn about San Diego's native wildlife as well as when and how to intervene when they need your help!

with Holbrook Travel

with Chirp Nature Center!

Volunteer your time to help us to perform the work that needs to be done in order for the wetlands to continue thriving!

Sponsored by Land, Sea and Sky

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Join us for this "Behind the Gates" trip!
Registration Required.

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

Join Sandy Zelasko, one half of Chicks on a Grouse Trip (https://chicksonagrousetrip.blogspot.com/), as she shares stories and information about photographing a variety of grouse species that live in the West. Learn about the types of grouse, where to find your subjects and an ethical way to view and photograph each species. This hour-long presentation will also share the challenges grouse face now and in the future.

Sandy Zelasko, professional photographer, educator, speaker and workshop leader, invests herself in student success. She listens to participant needs to best deliver solutions for understanding and achievement.  

As a freelance nature photographer specializing in North American wildlife, she promotes ethical practices, wildlife conservation and focuses on land acquisition for environmental sustainability.

She unselfishly shares her wildlife photography to educate, organizational skills to fundraise and her curiosity to study environmental issues where wildlife preservation is a key factor remaining focused on solutions beneficial to fragile wild ecosystems.

Currently Zelasko is documenting threatened and endangered Midwest grassland birds. Learn more at https://chicksonagrousetrip.blogspot.com/.

Photo:

“Greater Sage Grouse Headstudy”: Male Greater Sage Grouse in spring breeding plumage, Northern Utah. Canon R3, Canon RF 100-500mm @500mm, F7.1, 1/6400, ISO 5000.

La Jolla Cove is a scenic spot where the Pacific Ocean meets a rocky coastline.
Registration Required.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

The 18th Annual event returns February 3rd!

El Monte County Park is set in the oak forest habitat nestled just below El Cajon Mountain above Lakeside. The ample acorn supply attracts turkeys, acorn woodpeckers, jays, and band-tailed pigeons, while the berries from numerous wild bushes are food for thrushes, finches, sparrows, and phainopepla. Join us to explore this pretty park, rich with birdlife even in winter.

Staff and Volunteers will be preparing for Love Your Wetlands Day on February 3rd!

Tecolote Canyon is one of several protected urban canyons in the San Diego area that support native plant communities and associated bird life. Birds that are here for the entire year include hawks, Anna’s Hummingbird, California Thrasher, House Wren, Wrentit, and both California and Spotted Towhees. You can never tell what you may see. Easy walking. Restrooms at the trailhead.

Join our educational docents for a guided tour of the River Mouth and it's inhabitants. Every first and third Sunday following our regular outreach shift.

Are you ready to jump into Nature Journaling? "Wild stories" focuses on observing nature, documenting what you see and choosing the right story to tell with your journal.

In this workshop, Tammah Watts-Certified Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide, Licensed therapist (LMFT), best-selling author, and birder-invites you to experience birds in a whole new way wherever you are and whenever you wish

Explore Famosa Slough with the Friends of Famosa Slough

A gathering of bird photographers at Santee Lakes
Registration Required.

Raptors love the Ramona Grasslands
Registration Required.

Bird Sit at Silverwood
Registration Required.

Kit Carson Park
Registration Required.

Start off the new year with this favorite field trip.
Registration Required.