Sierra Foothills Audubon Society (SFAS) invites the community to extend the season of love—to birds! As part of the 29th annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), SFAS will host a series of guided bird walks and field trips from February 13 through 16, 2026, offering bird lovers of all experience levels the chance to enjoy nature, learn bird identification skills, and contribute valuable data to a global conservation effort.
The Great Backyard Bird Count is an international community science project led by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada. During the four-day event, participants around the world observe and count birds, submitting their findings to an international database used by researchers to track bird populations and inform conservation strategies.
SFAS’s local events include a variety of habitats and learning opportunities, from wetlands and wildlife areas to beginner-friendly neighborhood walks and an evening owl prowl. All outings emphasize bird identification by sight, sound, and behavior, and all collected data will be submitted to the GBBC.
2026 Sierra Foothills Audubon Society GBBC Field Trips
Friday, February 13 | 9:00–11:00 a.m.
Lake of the Pines Wastewater Treatment Facility
Meet just outside the treatment plant gate at 10984 Riata Way, Auburn (near Combie Road).
This wetland-like setting offers excellent opportunities to see waterfowl, wading birds, winter songbirds, and the occasional surprise visitor. Walking is easy and flat.
Leader: Rudy Darling | 530-388-6335 | rdarling@sbbmail.com
Saturday, February 14 | 5:00 p.m. – until finished
Owling Perimeter Road
This evening outing focuses on owls, including Western Screech-Owl and Great Horned Owl, with chances for Barn Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and more. Participation is limited to 12 people.
Leader: Rudy Darling | 530-388-6335 | rdarling@sbbmail.com | Advance reservation required
Sunday, February 15 | 8:00–10:00 a.m.
Bird Walk for Beginners – Grass Valley
Meet at the Briar Patch Market parking lot on Sierra College Drive. This walk is designed for beginners, though experienced birders are welcome to help spot and identify species. Expect to find 15–20 species along this scenic route.
Leaders: Rudy Darling | 530-272-6504
Monday, February 16 | 9:00 a.m.–Noon (+/-)
Spenceville Wildlife Area
Meet at the Park-n-Ride at Hwy 20 and Pleasant Valley Road to carpool. Winter highlights may include Lewis’s Woodpecker, White-tailed Kite, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, and winter visitors.
Leader: Rudy Darling | 530-388-6335
Monday, February 16 | 9:00–11:30 a.m.
Traylor Ranch, Penryn
Meet at the parking lot on Humphrey’s Road. Beginner-friendly walk on level trails through ranch habitat. Participants will stroll approximately 1.5–2 miles. Trails may be muddy; rain cancels the event.
Leader: Sarah Roeske | 916-281-4914
All outings are weather-dependent; participants are encouraged to dress appropriately and contact trip leaders if conditions are uncertain.
Why the Great Backyard Bird Count Matters
In 2025, more than 800,000 people worldwide participated in the GBBC, documenting 8,078 bird species across nearly every country. These observations help scientists better understand how birds are responding to challenges such as habitat loss and climate change.
“By participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count, we can appreciate the beauty and serenity that birds bring us every day,” said Ben Haywood, Audubon’s director of community science. “In return, our observations help secure a brighter future for birds and people alike.”
Participation is open to everyone. Individuals and groups count birds for at least 15 minutes and submit observations using the Merlin Bird ID or eBird apps. Counts can take place anywhere—from backyards and balconies to parks and wilderness areas.
For more information about the Great Backyard Bird Count, instructions for participation, and a map of local events, visit birdcount.org.
About Sierra Foothills Audubon Society
Sierra Foothills Audubon Society is dedicated to the appreciation, study, and conservation of birds and their habitats through education, community engagement, and citizen science.