Field Trip: Figueroa Mountain

Saturday, November 14, 2026 ~ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Bird enthusiasts of all experience levels are welcome to join this free public bird walk hosted by Santa Barbara Audubon Society and staff from Los Padres National Forest. We will be focused on the montane forests of Figueroa Mountain and Ranger Peak. Fall 2026 has already shown to be an “irruption year” in Southern/Central California, where several montane bird species have expanded into lower elevations or further south than in typical winters. Target species include Clark’s Nutcracker, Pygmy Nuthatch, Red Crossbill, Cassin’s Finch, Townsend’s Solitaire, and Pinyon Jay.

Itinerary:
We plan to meet at the Grass Mountain Trailhead at 9 am. Once everyone arrives we will caravan up to the Pino Alto Day Use Area. In case the road to the lookout is closed, we may also visit Ranger Peak/East Pinery Rd. We will spend 2-3 hours exploring one or both of these areas on foot.

Preparedness:
Please bring weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. We recommend carrying a small pack with drinking water and snacks for yourself. Please bring binoculars or other optics if you have them; loaner binoculars will be available to whoever needs them. Please be prepared for 2-3 hours of light hiking on established trails and paved roads. Please note that cell service is limited or unavailable at the meeting location, and spotty on Figueroa Mountain.

Please sign up by emailing email hidden; JavaScript is required or email hidden; JavaScript is required, so that we can notify you in case of weather-related cancellation or postponement. Late sign-ups and walk-up participants are also welcome.