Meet leader, Larry Langstaff, at 6:30 am, by his green Ford pickup, at the trailhead for this 2-3 hour survey. We will walk up a sandy wash, with some rock-stepping when gaining elevation, aiming for the elephant trees southwest of the CCC structures. Round trip will be close to three miles, but could be shortened. Spring migration should be about a month away, but wintering sparrows, a Hermit Thrush, and maybe an oriole will show up. Hummingbirds of two species that nest in the wash will be available for study. Gilded Flicker, Loggerhead Shrike and towhees are probable. This site has 145 species on its eBird hotspot list. Hopefully the winter rains will have produced some annual growth to feed the insects and animals. Difficulty is a 2, and no scope is needed! Good tread on shoes is helpful!
Who: Open only to Maricopa Audubon Society members. You may join MAS any time before the trip here.
Where: Pima Canyon Trailhead, west of 48th St and Guadalupe
Why: To enjoy birding with others while safely following CDC and state coronavirus guidelines
How: Registration is required. Limit: five plus the leader. To register, email: larrylangstaff1@gmail.com.
When you register, please include your phone number in case the field trip needs to be cancelled or for any post-trip messages such as contact tracing.
On the day of the field trip participants must:
show up on time
sign the liability waiver
provide a current email address
carpool only with members of your own household
wear your mask
stay 6 feet from others when possible
Bring binoculars, a field guide, hat, water, snacks, and personal hand sanitizer.