Explore the wonder of birds in the UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley (UCBG) with former Director of Collections Chris Carmichael and UCBG staff Krista Vossekuil. The Garden’s diverse plantings and topography, along with adjoining woodland and chaparral habitat, make for good birding in every season. In addition to year-round resident species such as Wrentits, jays, hummingbirds, and raptors, we may see migrants passing through as fall migration winds down. We’re highly likely to see winter visitors including warblers, Hermit Thrushes and if we’re lucky, sapsuckers. Starting at the entrance plaza, we’ll plan on going up to the Garden of Old Roses for a panoramic view of the Bay and to the Oak Knoll. which often shows good flocks of gleaners in the oaks.
The UC Botanical Garden has varying elevations and can be quite steep in some places. We will stay along main, paved path with occasional forays onto gravel/dirt. The walk will take about 1.5 hours and the distance is approximately 1.25 miles. Restrooms are available in two places.
Please note that, per University policy, masks are optional outdoors. Indoors, masks are strongly recommended but not required regardless of vaccination status.
October 25-31, the UCBG will host an exhibit called Dana Gardner: Fauna. “Gardner’s interest in nature, and specifically birds, is informed by his childhood spent in the wooded river valleys of Southeastern Minnesota. Gardner’s charming illustrations provide a glimpse into a variety of birds, mammals and insects within their natural habitats. Over 60 works will be on view. We invite visitors of all ages to enjoy the beauty and wonder of faunal life through the work of Dana Gardner. “ Check Botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu for more information
Directions: Meet at the entrance plaza for the Botanical Garden. A paid parking lot is available across the street.
Leaders: Chris Carmichael and Krista Vossekuil