Let by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, join a Naturalist to learn about Shellmaker Island’s rich history; the future of the Back Bay Science Center; and discover unusual and endangered plants, birds and marine life. Bring binoculars if you have them. No latecomers. The program is free. Reservations are required. Please call 949-640-9956 for more information and to RSVP.

Led by Sea & Sage Audubon Society in partnership with the Irvine Ranch Water District, this free monthly bird walk is a great way to learn more about the wonderful world of birds. Discover a diversity of birds with expert birders as we explore the freshwater ponds, San Diego Creek, butterfly garden, and riparian areas of the beautiful 300 acre San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary in Irvine. In spring, we will look and listen for migrating warblers, swallows, flycatchers, orioles, shorebirds and more. We will also watch for nesting behavior of ducks, shorebirds, and raptors. Open to all ages who are interested in bird-watching; children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult. Dress appropriately for a walk around open water. For further information or directions, go to www.seaandsageaudubon.org, or contact the Audubon House Volunteer at 949-261-7963. There is no registration required.

Agua Chinon attracts a large number of bird species throughout the year, but is especially “birdy” during migration season. The easy walking trail passes through a restoration area where the supplemental moisture provided by irrigation attracts many birds all year round. In May, the area is a likely stopover point for migrating birds that are just visiting on their way to their winter feeding grounds. Join a group of birders as we look for all kinds of birds, but especially for the rare ones that we generally only see at this time of year. Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, along with sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen. Bring your binoculars, or borrow ours.

Led by Newport Bay Conservancy Naturalists on behalf of California Department of Fish and Wildlife, join a highly informative themed plant and bird program. A short walk in an area where several habitats meet, provide a great introduction for those interested in identifying the birds and plants they see at the Bay. If a particular theme is not stated, the Naturalist will discuss items of special interest encountered by the group along the way, such as a bird in breeding plumage or a rare plant that is flowering at the time. Bring binoculars if you have them. There is no charge for the program, but reservations are requested. Please call 949-923-2269 for more information, directions, and to RSVP.

Come visit the Office of Natural Resources, Recreation and Senior Services Department at the City of Newport Beach at the Back Bay Science Center (located at 600 Shellmaker Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660) every Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to experience the beauty of Upper Newport Bay while browsing a research and education facility! Explore tidepool touch tanks, observe coastal bay and estuary birds, or examine some biofacts in the Teaching Lab. No reservations are required for this free event and it is open to all ages. For any questions, please contact marineeducation@newportbeachca.gov.

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like weeding and watering native plantings can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact! All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Note that this activity is held on the 4th Wednesday of each month.
Please review the Difficulty Ratings before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Be prepared to experience the beauty and wonder of Weir Canyon, steeped in history and lore, on this morning equestrian ride.  The ride will travel through Weir Canyon, where the trail weaves its way through a beautiful oak woodland inhabited by deer, coyote, bobcat, and many different birds. You will travel the route of the Butterfield Stage and see a monument dedicated to the Mexican ox cart drivers. If time permits, we will climb to the Two Tower vista point to look at distant views. This ride travels on wide trails with several easy to moderate climbs. Equestrians who have trail riding experience and their own fit and able horse are welcome. You will need to transport your horse to the staging area. Owners of unshod horses, please note that footing will include areas of gravel and distances over asphalt pavement. Please bring water on the ride.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like collecting seed from native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Buck Gully near Newport Beach. This activity takes place on sloped terrain and sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen here and generally avoid people, but protective gear will be provided.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Led by Newport Bay Conservancy on behalf of California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Newport Bay Conservancy Naturalists lead a walk starting at the entrance of Shellmaker Island along Back Bay Drive. There are great opportunities to view shorebirds, waterfowl, and other birds while learning about this important estuary. Please call 949 923-2269 for reservations which are encouraged, and directions. Bring sun protection and binoculars if you have them.

Come out and join an OC Parks volunteer and experienced birdwatcher in a program discussing the diversity of birds at Mason Regional Park! On an easy 1/2 mile walk, you will view and discuss a variety of birds that call Mason Park home. We will check for different types of ducks, geese, greebes and songbirds. Water, sunscreen, hats and comfortable shoes are recommended. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars to get the best views of the birds!

Event: FREE, Parking: $3

For questions call 949-923-2220.

*Please note there is an earlier start time than previous walks*

Be prepared to experience the beauty and wonder of Weir Canyon, steeped in history and lore, on this morning equestrian ride.  The ride will travel through Weir Canyon, where the trail weaves its way through a beautiful oak woodland inhabited by deer, coyote, bobcat, and many different birds. You will travel the route of the Butterfield Stage and see a monument dedicated to the Mexican ox cart drivers. If time permits, we will climb to the Two Tower vista point to look at distant views. This ride travels on wide trails with several easy to moderate climbs. Equestrians who have trail riding experience and their own fit and able horse are welcome. You will need to transport your horse to the staging area. Owners of unshod horses, please note that footing will include areas of gravel and distances over asphalt pavement. Please bring water on the ride.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like weeding and watering native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Newport Bay and Big Canyon. All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Note that this activity is held on the 2nd Thursday of each month.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Come end your day with a quiet walk through the calming canyons on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. We will watch for soaring red-tailed hawks, listen to birds quietly sing, and inhale the fragrance of fresh sage. Shed away the day’s repetitions and join us as we take a “slow walk” into Baker Canyon, mindful of all that is happening around us. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight and be prepared for the canyon’s cooler evening temperatures by wearing warm layers. Take in the tranquil evening as we quietly walk along the trails.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.

Let by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, join a Naturalist to learn about Shellmaker Island’s rich history; the future of the Back Bay Science Center; and discover unusual and endangered plants, birds and marine life. Bring binoculars if you have them. No latecomers. The program is free. Reservations are required. Please call 949-640-9956 for more information and to RSVP.

Led by Sea & Sage Audubon Society in partnership with the Irvine Ranch Water District, this free monthly bird walk is a great way to learn more about the wonderful world of birds. Discover a diversity of birds with expert birders as we explore the freshwater ponds, San Diego Creek, butterfly garden, and riparian areas of the beautiful 300 acre San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary in Irvine. In spring, we will look and listen for migrating warblers, swallows, flycatchers, orioles, shorebirds and more. We will also watch for nesting behavior of ducks, shorebirds, and raptors. Open to all ages who are interested in bird-watching; children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult. Dress appropriately for a walk around open water. For further information or directions, go to www.seaandsageaudubon.org, or contact the Audubon House Volunteer at 949-261-7963. There is no registration required.

Invading weeds degrade habitat for birds and other wildlife. Help us keep wildlife healthy by weeding artichoke thistle from the Quail Hill loop in Irvine. This activity takes place on uneven terrain and sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen here and generally avoid people, but protective gear will be provided.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.

Birds are often hidden from sight and yet can still be identified by their calls and songs. Knowing how to identify birds by ear is an important step in becoming a good birder. Join other birders as we search for birds by both ear and eye in the beautiful oak woodland and coastal sage scrub of Round Canyon. Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, along with sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen. To confirm the identities of the birds you hear, please bring your binoculars, or some will be available for your use.

Led by Newport Bay Conservancy Naturalists on behalf of California Department of Fish and Wildlife, join a highly informative themed plant and bird program. A short walk in an area where several habitats meet, provide a great introduction for those interested in identifying the birds and plants they see at the Bay. If a particular theme is not stated, the Naturalist will discuss items of special interest encountered by the group along the way, such as a bird in breeding plumage or a rare plant that is flowering at the time. Bring binoculars if you have them. There is no charge for the program, but reservations are requested. Please call 949-923-2269 for more information, directions, and to RSVP.

Join us in Limestone Canyon as we observe the many species of birds that call it home. A wide variety of our feathered friends can be seen, such as California Gnatcatcher, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Greater Roadrunner, California Scrub Jay, California Towhee, Red-tailed Hawk and many others. Please bring your binoculars if you have them, though some will be available for use. Be ready to slowly walk along the trails to observe the birds of Limestone Canyon.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.

Led by Laguna Canyon Foundation in partnership with OC Parks. Spot local native and resident birds with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this 2-mile hike over uneven terrain (up to 200-ft. elevation gain) through one of the most diverse plant communities in the United States. No experience necessary! For ages 12 and up (minors must be accompanied by an adult). Wear hiking or walking shoes and bring your binoculars. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or I-405 to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; make a U-turn and go 1/2 block. Dilley is on the right.) Online reservations required: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. For questions, call 949-497-8324. Parking $3/vehicle