Backyard Birds for Beginners at McClellan Ranch Preserve

Before signing up for this trip, please take a moment to read our trip policies and view our liability waiver.

Backyard Birds for Beginners at McClellan Ranch Preserve

Learn your backyard birds and get ready for the Great Backyard Bird Count in February! We’ll start outside the SCVAS nature shop, where you’ll observe the birds that come to our bird feeders and learn how to use Merlin, a free bird ID app that is helpful for new birders. We’ll then take a short stroll together along the Stevens Creek Trail, looking for and identifying birds. We’ll email you a list of the bird species observed and a guide to birding resources afterwards.

Next, join the Great Backyard Bird Count and try your new ID skills! Between February 17-20, 2023, head outside for 15 minutes, observe birds, and share your bird count with scientists. This global bird count is for bird lovers everywhere, new and experienced, and is a great way to enjoy and help birds.

For more information and activities for beginning birders, see our GBBC web page.

Trip Difficulty: less than 1 mile, paved flat path, gentle pace appropriate for all regardless of physical abilities.

Other Trip Notes: Bring binoculars if you have them - loaner binoculars are available; optional: download Merlin Bird ID to your smartphone

Leaders: Diane McCoy (650) 714-3769 and Mary Ann Robertson (650) 521-3910

Beginner Friendly, Family Friendly All Ages, Wheelchair Accessible

Meet: outside the SCVAS Nature Shop

Directions: From I-280 in Cupertino, exit Foothill Expy. Travel south onto Foothill Blvd for 1.3 miles. Turn left onto McClellan Rd and continue for 0.5 miles. Turn left into the overflow parking lot. The nature shop is located across the creek at the preserve entrance. Address: 22221 McClellan Rd, Cupertino, CA 95014. Latitude/Longitude: 37.313534, -122.064897 (the overflow lot)

Facilities: ADA compliant bathroom, drinking water

Parking Type and Fees: no fees, 2 ADA compliant parking spots in the main parking lot and 2 more in the overflow parking lot

Banner Photo: Oak Titmice by Hita Bambhania-Modha

Questions? Email general questions to fieldtrips@scvas.org or contact the trip leader for questions regarding the event.