A trip for beginning or visiting birders who want to learn about Sonoran Desert birds that favor mesquite bosques – a once prevalent but now threatened habitat. We’ll explore the mesquite forest along the Agua Caliente wash and practice identifying birds by shape, sound, color, and behavior. We’ll make connections between the birds and plants in this preserve.

We’ll walk at a leisurely pace for 2-3 miles on trails and in washes that are uneven and sandy in places.  Bring a sunhat, drinking water and wear sturdy walking shoes.

Meet in the parking area at the very end of N Bonanza Ave (there are two small parking areas – park in either one). N Bonanza Road is accessed by taking a right turn from E Tanque Verde Rd after The Lakes at Castle Rock community.  Use the coordinates and/or Google maps link below to avoid going to the wrong entrance to the preserve.

Address/coordinates: 32.24291576922329, -110.7812686041839

Google maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/6CmjcXztbHiDR4dZ8

Trip Leader: Karen Howe (karenhowepdx@gmail.com)