Phylo-birding at Alum Rock (San Jose)

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Phylo-birding at Alum Rock (San Jose)

We’ll use the diverse bird species and habitats of Alum Rock Park to focus on ways in which phylogenetic and biogeographic knowledge can enrich your birding experience. Located within the Alum Rock Canyon in east San Jose, this park is California’s oldest municipal park. Habitats include chaparral, riparian, mixed forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain. We will look for spring migrants such as Black-headed Grosbeaks, Rufous-crowned Sparrows, California Thrashers, Acorn Woodpecker, raptors, and possible Lazuli Buntings. A handout will be provided, and it would be useful to first attend the phylo-birding Zoom talk on May 8.

Trip Difficulty: 3-4 miles packed-dirt trails, some hills (less than 300 ft elevation gain), steep in some sections, some shade

Leaders: John Harshman (408) 406-4733 and Ryan Ludman (248) 719-1331

Family Friendly Ages 14 and up

Meet: Eagle Rock parking lot

Directions: From US-101 or I-680 exit McKee Rd east towards the hills. Turn left onto Toyon Ave then turn right onto Penitencia Creek Rd. Continue on Penitencia for about 0.7 miles into the park. Once in the park, continue another 0.9 miles. The Eagle Rock parking lot is on your right. Latitude/Longitude: 37.393568, -121.815682.

Facilities: bathroom, drinking water, no cell phone service

Parking Type and Fees: paved parking lot

Banner Photo: Black-headed Grosbeak by Luis Villablanca

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