Gearing up for 2026 CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT - Save the Date!

 


Save the Dates!

Morro Bay CBC and Carrizo Plain CBC

 

Morro Bay

The 73rd Annual Morro Bay Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is scheduled for Saturday December 19th, dawn to dusk, rain or shine! Online registration will open on November 1st on the Morro Coast Audubon website. We ask that you please register before Saturday December 4th so that Area Leaders can insure that there are participants to cover all 54 sectors in the count circle. All experience levels are welcome, and once you participate you'll want to come back and do it again next year!

This year's Community Program and MB CBC compilation event will be held on Sunday, December 20th at 1:00 pm at SLO Botanical Gardens in the Oak Glenn Pavilion. As the time approaches, more information will be sent out from MCAS and SLOCOBIRDING as well as posted to MCAS website and the MCAS Events Calendar.

Thank You in advance for making this year’s annual CBC a success!

Contact Jay Carroll, Count Compiler, or Joanne Aasen, Count Registrar, if you have questions.

Carrizo Plain

The 55th Carrizo Plain CBC will be held on Monday January 4, 2027 from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. with a chance to bird before and after. We will decide whether to carpool or not, as the date approaches. Please contact Russ Namitz at CBCCarrizo@morrocoastaudubon.org to participate and be paired with another birder for the count.




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MCAS Zoom Community Program - OCT 19 - Raptor Quest: Chasing America’s Raptors

Scott Harris in the field.  

MCAS - October 2026 - Zoom Community Program

Program: Raptor Quest: Chasing America’s Raptors

When:         Monday, October 19th, 2026, 7 pm - 8 pm

Presenter: Scott Harris


Join Zoom Meeting Zoom Meeting ID: 922 0801 0147; Passcode: 906442

You can also find the link in the MCAS Events Calendar. 


To support MCAS’s mission and activities, including Community Programs, please consider becoming a member of MCAS.


All MCAS Community Programs are free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. No signup/registration required to attend.


Description: 


Scott Harris spent 17 months chasing 53 Raptor species across 34 states—his version of a Raptor Big Year. RaptorQuest is about his adventures, misadventures, successes and failures. From -36℉ days, to ones over 100℉, to getting on the bird just in time, to the frustrations of missing one by minutes. It’s about the birds—of course—but it’s also about the people he met, the things he learned, and why he’s already working on his next adventure.

Bio: 

Scott Harris became an avid birder when he and his wife, Randi, retired to South Carolina in March of 2020. It was a hobby he never imagined himself participating in, but now can’t imagine living without. He has since added a fascination with mammals and has sold his photographs around the world.

His most recent book, RaptorQuest: Chasing America’s Raptors, is the story of his year-long adventure tracking down every species of Raptor in the Lower 48 states.


In addition to his writing, Scott also hosts a podcast – NaturallyScott – that focuses on birds, wildlife and the great outdoors, and just signed a multi-book deal that includes his upcoming book – Why We Love Birds: 52 Birders on Birding.


His interests and hobbies include the largest collection of John Steinbeck’s Travels with Charley in the world, playing harmonica in a blues band, and he has written more than fifty books in the past ten years - though the one he’ll be discussing today is his first entrée into the world of birding and birds.


If you have questions, email commprograms@morrocoastaudubon.org


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VIDEO for SEPT 21 Community Program is now available

Mexican Free-tailed Bats - Packed in like Sardines [photo by Robb Hirsch]  

View video on MCAS YouTube Channel

Program: Yosemite Wildlife - Stories in Front of, and Behind, the Lens  

Presenter(s):    Robb Hirsch


Description: 

Yosemite is primarily known for its world class scenery and, as a result, the park’s wildlife is unfortunately often overlooked. Join Robb Hirsch for a presentation highlighting the diversity of Yosemite’s incredible wildlife and how he creates images that tell their stories. He’ll share natural history anecdotes, ethical wildlife photography tips, and the experiences behind capturing images over the past 30 years. Robb is the photographer of the recently published Yosemite Wildlife written by conservationist extraordinaire, Beth Pratt, and he’s the author/photographer of The Nature of Yosemite- A Visual Journey, both published by the Yosemite Conservancy.


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MCAS Field Trip - OCT 8 - Santa Margarita Pontoon Boat Birding

Birders in Pontoon Boat at Santa Margarita Lake [by Bob Revel]  

 REGISTRATION CLOSED.  

Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents  

Santa Margarita Lake Pontoon Boat Birding  

October 8, 2026  

8:00am to 11:00am  

Santa Margarita  

Leaders: MCAS Leaders  


Description: Join Morro Coast Audubon on a pontoon boat ride adventure birding Santa Margarita Lake. We'll cruise the northwest portion of the lake taking in all the nesting birds as well as shoreline wildlife that abound. We will be on the lake for about 2 hours, returning before midday heat. In our most recent visit, we saw lots of Grebes still in their nests, but we also saw baby Grebes on mom’s back. We also saw an adult Black Bear and 3 cubs. 


The registration fee for this trip is $30. Note that there is a $12 per vehicle entry fee at the campground kiosk. Participants selected for this trip will be sent information on the method of payment for the event. 


This field trip is not ADA accessible, restrooms are available, and the trip is open to all levels of experience.



Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GsjyXDzJAD2LCvS76


Directions: Meets at the Marina store at Santa Margarita Lake Marina, 4695 Santa Margarita Lake Road, Santa Margarita. After checking in at the campground kiosk, drive down to the boat dock and Marina store parking area.


Bring a hat, water, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and dress in layers to accommodate wind and changing weather. Cameras are welcomed. Restrooms are available at the Marina store. 


ADA: not accessible


Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org


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MCAS Field Trip - OCT 11 - Oso Flaco Fall Birding

Boardwalk on right leading across lake on left [by Joanne Aasen]  

REGISTRATION CLOSED.

Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents  


Oso Flaco Fall Birding  

October 11, 2026  

8:30am to 11:30am  

Oso Flaco Lake

Leader: Jessica Griffith


Description: Explore a rich variety of habitats on a relaxed birding walk at Oso Flaco Lake. Enjoy close-up views of waterfowl—and possibly elusive bitterns and rails—from the boardwalk overlooking the lake and marsh. We'll also bird two prime willow habitats known for attracting returning warblers and other migrants. The route includes 2–3 miles of slow-paced walking through riparian woodland, across the lake boardwalk, and into coastal sage scrub. If time allows, we’ll continue on to the beach to search for coastal specialties. The trail is mostly level, with a mix of boardwalk and packed trail—plus sand if we reach the beach. 


Please bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, and field guides (if you have them), and dress in layers for wind and changing conditions. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Restrooms are available at the trailhead.



Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qVChio3zC4vFTN499 


Directions: Meet at Oso Flaco parking lot, 3004 Oso Flaco Lake Road, Arroyo Grande. There is a $5 fee for parking (may or may not be in effect). Wear a hat, sturdy walking shoes, and dress in layers as it can be cool and windy. We will gather at the picnic tables. 

Please bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, and field guides (if you have them), and dress in layers for wind and changing conditions. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Restrooms are available at the trailhead.


ADA accessible for most of the walk.


Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org


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MCAS Field Trip - OCT 23 - Los Osos Oaks

Oak Tree at Los Osos Oaks [by Robbie Revel]

Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents  

 

Habitat - Los Osos Oaks 

October 23, 2026  

9am to 12 Noon  

Los Osos Oaks

Leader: Faylla Chapman

 

Description: Join naturalist Faylla Chapman for a guided tour through the diverse habitats of The Oaks Reserve. Along the way, you'll learn about both native and invasive plant species and their importance to humans, animals, and birds. The trail is a 2-mile round trip with moderate elevation changes and sections of loose sand. While the path is well-marked and generally easy to walk, it is narrow in places. Please be aware that poison oak is present along the route, so appropriate clothing is recommended.

 

Please note: there are no restroom facilities available at this location.

 

 

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zhgeya5rGpRwkHN4A 

 

Directions:  Meet at the parking lot of the Los Osos Oaks Reserve, off Los Osos Valley Road about 1 mile south of South Bay Blvd. If for some reason, you need to cancel your reservation(s), please contact Robbie Revel (robbie.revel@morrocoastaudubon.org) ASAP as others on the “waitlist” may be able to take your place. 

 

ADA - not accessible

 

Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org

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MCAS Field Trip - OCT 24 - Morro Strand Fall Shorebirds

Long-Billed Curlew eating Sand Crab [by Mike Baird]

 Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents  

Morro Strand Fall Shorebirds

October 24, 2026  

9 am to 12 Noon  

Morro Bay State Park Strand Campground

Leaders: The Bird Nerds


Description: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Morro Strand and through coastal sage scrub habitat in search of arriving fall migrants and beach-dwelling shorebirds. We'll explore the pond and outflow of Alva Paul Creek, a freshwater source that attracts a variety of birds—including gulls, terns, and more. This easygoing walk covers about 2 miles along a flat trail and beach, with some sections of deep sand. We’ll move at a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of time for observation.



Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8KfCKBhQ9wZL9Yph8 


Directions: We will meet at the day parking area of the Morro Strand State Park Campground, next to the Kiosk. Take Highway one north of Morro Bay and exit west on Yerba Buena St. Turn left on Trinidad and park in the day use area. If the lot is full, you may go back up Trinidad and park on the street. 


Bring a hat, water, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and field guides (if you have them) and dress in layers to accommodate wind and changing weather. Cameras and Scopes are welcome. Scopes are helpful to spot birds on the beach without disturbing them. Expect to walk about two miles(total) on the beach with some areas of deep sand. Sturdy shoes are recommended.  Restrooms are available.


ADA - not accessible


Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org


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MCAS Field Trip - OCT 27 - Sweet Springs Birding

Sweet Spring Pond, Storm Damaged Stumps, Path and Estuary [by Karen Perry]
 Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents  

Sweet Springs Birding

October 27, 2026  

9 am to 12 Noon  

Sweet Springs Preserve, Los Osos

Leader: Grace Hayes


Description: Audubon Sweet Springs Nature Preserve offers an ideal setting for birding, with two viewing platforms and meandering trails that provide panoramic views of the estuary, wetlands, and mudflats—prime habitat for a variety of shorebirds. The on-site pond attracts ducks, while the surrounding diverse vegetation supports many breeding and migratory bird species during the spring season and fall seasons. The walk covers approximately 1 mile on level boardwalks and dirt paths, making it an easy and enjoyable stroll for all experience levels. 



Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1xR6bM1dWWevQig29 


Directions: Sweet Springs Nature Preserve is located at 660 Ramona Ave. in Los Osos. We will meet at the Central Kiosk entrance. There is street parking all along Ramona in front of the preserve.


Wear a hat, sturdy walking shoes and dress in layers as it can be cool and windy. Bring binoculars, sunscreen, water and snacks as needed. Restrooms (port-a-potty) are available at the East entrance. 


ADA - not accessible


Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org


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MCAS Field Trip - OCT 31 - Laguna Lake Birding

Birding Open Fields at Laguna Lake [by Robbie Revel] 

Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents  

Laguna Lake Birding

October 31, 2026  

9 am to 12 Noon  

Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo

Leader: Mark Mushkat


Description: We’ll explore the park’s trees and meadows in search of wintering songbirds, flycatchers, and raptors. Open spaces and power poles offer great vantage points for spotting raptors during the winter, while marshy areas can be productive for warblers, wrens, and munias.  The lake will be scanned for  returning  water foul. The trail is flat, and we’ll cover approximately 1.5 to 2 miles.


This trip is for birders with ebird accounts. 



Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GfvyENUnoeTB3vdG8


Directions: Meet at the Off Leash Dog Park Lot. Laguna Lake Park is located in San Luis Obispo midway along the north side of Madonna Road. Madonna Road exits US 101 in San Luis Obispo or can be reached at a major intersection on Los Osos Valley Road about a mile west of US 101. 


Please bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, and field guides (if you have them), and dress in layers for wind and changing conditions. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Restrooms are available at the trailhead.


ADA: not accessible


Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org


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MCAS Community Program - SEPT 21 - Yosemite Wildlife - Stories in Front of, and Behind, the Lens

Mexican Free-tailed Bats - Packed in like Sardines [photo by Robb Hirsch]  

MCAS - September 2026 - Zoom Community Program


Program:     Yosemite Wildlife - Stories in Front of, and Behind, the Lens

When:             Monday, Sept 21st, 2026 7pm-8pm

Presenter(s):    Robb Hirsch


Join Zoom Meeting Zoom Meeting ID: 916 3667 2492; Passcode:740643

You can also find the link in the MCAS Events Calendar. 


To support MCAS’s mission and activities, including Community Programs, please consider becoming a member of MCAS.


All MCAS Community Programs are free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. No signup/registration required to attend.


Description: 

Yosemite is primarily known for its world class scenery and, as a result, the park’s wildlife is unfortunately often overlooked. Join Robb Hirsch for a presentation highlighting the diversity of Yosemite’s incredible wildlife and how he creates images that tell their stories. He’ll share natural history anecdotes, ethical wildlife photography tips, and the experiences behind capturing images over the past 30 years. Robb is the photographer of the recently published Yosemite Wildlife written by conservationist extraordinaire, Beth Pratt, and he’s the author/photographer of The Nature of Yosemite- A Visual Journey, both published by the Yosemite Conservancy.


Bio: 

Biologist by training, naturalist by heart, and photographer by passion, Robb Hirsch has an intimate relationship with the natural world. Photography was originally a means to document the wildlife and habitats he was working with before becoming the focus. His primary professional goal is using nature photography for education, outreach, and conservation, in addition to creating images to hang on walls for pure enjoyment. Robb's photography has been featured in calendars, magazines, gallery showings, and international competitions, and he leads customized small-group, private photography workshops in Yosemite and the surrounding Sierra Nevada. Robb is the author/photographer of The Nature of Yosemite: A Visual Journey (Yosemite Conservancy, 2019) and the photographer of Yosemite Wildlife (Yosemite Conservancy, 2025). More information about Robb and his work, at www.RobbHirschPhoto.com.


If you have questions, email mcas@morrocoastaudubon.org.


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