Back to All Events

Field Trip: Loney Meadows

Please note this trip was originally scheduled for June 24. It has been rescheduled for July 8 due to snow.

This trip is FULL.
Please email
Sonja to be added to the waitlist.
Participation is limited to 8 participants

Field Trip Leader: Sonja Sorbo

As summer's heat hits the Central Valley, the Sierra becomes a lovely refuge for birds and birders alike. Our trail is located off of the Highway 80 corridor at about 6000 feet in elevation, and it is a great place for a birdy day hike. A large meadow and the surrounding conifer forest attract neo-tropical songbirds and provide habitat for several delightful resident species. We will be walking for several miles on a generally well-maintained dirt trail with just a small elevation gain. 

Mountain Quail, Image by Daniel Brown

We will look for warblers such as Nashville, Wilson's, Black-throated Gray, and MacGillivray's, plus, Western Tanagers, Black-headed Grosbeaks, Warbling and Cassin's vireos. Several species of flycatchers are possible to see, including Western Wood-pewee, Olive-sided, Dusky, and Hammond's Flycatchers. This area is also home to some great woodpeckers, and if we're lucky we'll get binocs on a White-headed or a Pileated beauty.

Additionally, Mountain Quail can often be heard calling, but we'll have to be very stealthy and lucky if we hope to view one.

Just a warning - the last couple of miles of road to the trailhead are fairly sketchy dirt and rock, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Wear sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, and bring a hat, sunscreen, lunch, snacks, and plenty of water.

Directions and confirmation of exact meeting location and time will be provided upon registration. This trip will involve about 1 1/2 hours each way driving and 4-5 hours birding

COVID 19 Precautions:

  • All participants must register in advance to attend this field trip. Registration for this field trip will be limited to 8 participants.

  • All participants, including field trip leaders, must be vaccinated.

Field Trip Registration: This trip is FULL. Please email Sonja to be added to the waitlist. Exact meeting time, driving directions, and instructions will be sent to registered participants.