MCAS Community Program - SEPT 21 - Yosemite Wildlife - Stories in Front of, and Behind, the Lens

Mexican Free-tailed Bats - Packed in like Sardines [photo by Robb Hirsch]  

MCAS - September 2026 - Zoom Community Program

Program:     Yosemite Wildlife - Stories in Front of, and Behind, the Lens

When:             Monday, Sept 21st, 2026 7pm-8pm

Presenter(s):    Robb Hirsch

Join Zoom Meeting Zoom Meeting ID: 916 3667 2492; Passcode:740643

You can also find the link in the MCAS Events Calendar. 

To support MCAS’s mission and activities, including Community Programs, please consider becoming a member of MCAS.

All MCAS Community Programs are free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. No signup/registration required to attend.

Description: 

Yosemite is primarily known for its world class scenery and, as a result, the park’s wildlife is unfortunately often overlooked. Join Robb Hirsch for a presentation highlighting the diversity of Yosemite’s incredible wildlife and how he creates images that tell their stories. He’ll share natural history anecdotes, ethical wildlife photography tips, and the experiences behind capturing images over the past 30 years. Robb is the photographer of the recently published Yosemite Wildlife written by conservationist extraordinaire, Beth Pratt, and he’s the author/photographer of The Nature of Yosemite- A Visual Journey, both published by the Yosemite Conservancy.

Bio: 

Biologist by training, naturalist by heart, and photographer by passion, Robb Hirsch has an intimate relationship with the natural world. Photography was originally a means to document the wildlife and habitats he was working with before becoming the focus. His primary professional goal is using nature photography for education, outreach, and conservation, in addition to creating images to hang on walls for pure enjoyment. Robb's photography has been featured in calendars, magazines, gallery showings, and international competitions, and he leads customized small-group, private photography workshops in Yosemite and the surrounding Sierra Nevada. Robb is the author/photographer of The Nature of Yosemite: A Visual Journey (Yosemite Conservancy, 2019) and the photographer of Yosemite Wildlife (Yosemite Conservancy, 2025). More information about Robb and his work, at www.RobbHirschPhoto.com.

If you have questions, email mcas@morrocoastaudubon.org.

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MCAS Field Trip - SEPT 3 - Santa Margarita Lake Pontoon Boat Birding

Pontoon Boat with Birders [photo by Bob Revel]

Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents 

Santa Margarita Lake Pontoon Boat Birding  

September 3, 2026  

8:00am to 11:00am  

Santa Margarita  

Leaders: MCAS Leaders  

Description: Join Morro Coast Audubon on a pontoon boat ride adventure birding Santa Margarita Lake. We'll cruise the northwest portion of the lake taking in all the nesting birds as well as shoreline wildlife that abound. We will be on the lake for about 2 hours, returning before midday heat. In our most recent visit, we saw lots of Grebes still in their nests, but we also saw baby Grebes on mom’s back. 

The registration fee for this trip is $30. Note that there is a $12 per vehicle entry fee at the campground kiosk. Participants selected for this trip will be sent information on the method of payment for the event. 

This field trip is not ADA accessible, restrooms are available, and the trip is open to all levels of experience.

REQUEST TO REGISTER

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GsjyXDzJAD2LCvS76

Directions: Meets at the Marina store at Santa Margarita Lake Marina, 4695 Santa Margarita Lake Road, Santa Margarita. After checking in at the campground kiosk, drive down to the boat dock and Marina store parking area.

Bring a hat, water, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and dress in layers to accommodate wind and changing weather. Cameras are welcomed. Restrooms are available at the Marina store. 

Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org

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MCAS Field Trip - SEPT 12 - Montana de Oro Birding

Bluffs at Montana de Oro [photo by Bob Revel]

Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents 

Montana de Oro Birding  

September 12, 2026  

8:30am to 12:00pm  

Montana de Oro, Los Osos, CA  

Leader: Mark Mushkat  

Description: Discover the Coastal Habitats of Montaña de Oro. Join us for a scenic and bird-filled walk through this rugged coastal park! Your leader will guide you through the diverse habitats of Montaña de Oro, starting with the sea bluffs along the south shore of Spooner’s Cove. We’ll explore the coastal sage scrub and continue south along the rocky shoreline in search of rock-loving shorebirds, sea ducks, and raptors.

The walk then turns inland along the riparian corridor of Islay Creek and into the pine-dotted campgrounds, where we’ll look for passerines, woodpeckers, and other birds of the coastal scrublands.This is a gentle walk covering 1–2 miles on mostly flat trails and paved roads. This trip is ADA accessible.

Special Requirement: This trip is for Intermediate and more experienced birders with eBird accounts. 

Admission: This event is limited to 12 participants. Registrants selected for this event will be notified by email. Do not plan to attend this event until you have received confirmation that you were selected for the event.

REQUEST TO REGISTER

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9YwLdaydpHT67KjUA

Directions: Meet in front of the Visitors Center / Spooner Ranch House across from Spooner’s Cove. From the main business district of Los Osos go west on Los Osos Valley Road. Los Osos Valley Road becomes Pecho Valley Road and curves left (south). Continue to the park entrance sign. From the park entrance sign drive about 2.4 miles, turn left (east) toward the campground and park in front of the Visitors Center. 

Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org

 

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MCAS Field Trip - SEPT 14 - Villa Creek Snowy Plovers

Banded Snowy Plover - Villa Creek [photo by Bob Revel]

 Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents 

Villa Creek Snowy Plovers  

September 14, 2026  

9:00am to 11:00am  

Leader: Sharon Iranpour  

Description: Join Sharon Iranpour for a 1-2 mile walk across Estero Bluffs onto a sandy beach and down to Villa Creek to look for and observe the western snowy plover, fellow shorebirds and waterfowl in the creek. Villa Creek is one of few local beaches where the snowy plover breeds. This plover is increasingly at risk and federally protected. We’ll check high and low, in and out of the water, and collaborate to share what we find. 

This field trip is not ADA accessible, restrooms are NOT available, and the trip is open to all levels of experience.

Bring a hat, water, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and dress in layers to accommodate wind and changing weather.. 

Admission: This event is limited to 12 participants. Registrants selected for this event will be notified by email. Do not plan to attend this event until you have received confirmation that you were selected for the event.

REQUEST TO REGISTER

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NWR7qLTi71Ndj8jQ9

Directions: Meets at the Villa Creek parking lot on CA-1 north of Cayucos. The parking lot is the fourth parking area 2.1 miles north of where CA-1 becomes single-lane. Look for Sharon’s orange jeep.

Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org

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MCAS Field Trip - SEPT 20 - Shorebirds for All

Fall Migrants feeding along Morro Strand [photo by Bob Revel]

 Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents 

Shorebirds for All  

September 20, 2026  

9:00am to 12:00pm  

Morro Strand Beach, Morro Bay  

Leaders: Revel Team & Mike Bush  

Description: Take a leisurely stroll along Morro Strand in search of returning shorebirds.. We'll explore the pond and the outflow of Alva Paul Creek, where gulls, terns, and other birds gather around the freshwater source. The walk continues to the North Point area, a good spot to look for rock sandpipers. This flat beach walk covers about 2 miles at a relaxed pace, though some sections may have deep sand.

We will accommodate each level of Shorebird Expertise from Beginners to those interested in Gull ID. 

This field trip is not ADA accessible, restrooms are available, and the trip is open to all levels of experience.

Admission: This event is limited to 12 participants. Registrants selected for this event will be notified by email. Do not plan to attend this event until you have received confirmation that you were selected for the event.

REQUEST TO REGISTER

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/seebJjrXjNzWsHd3A

Directions: We will meet at the day parking area of the Morro Strand State Park Campground, next to the Kiosk. Take Highway one north of Morro Bay and exit west on Yerba Buena St. Turn left on Trinidad and park in the day use area. If the lot is full, you may go back up Trinidad and park on the street. 

Bring a hat, water, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and field guides (if you have them) and dress in layers to accommodate wind and changing weather. Cameras and Scopes are welcome. Scopes are helpful to spot birds on the beach without disturbing them. Expect to walk about two miles (total) on beach with some areas of deep sand. Sturdy shoes are recommended.  

Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org

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MCAS Field Trip - SEPT 24 - Habitat - Marina Boardwalk

Morro Bay Marina [photo by Robbie Revel]

 Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents 

Habitat - Marina Boardwalk  

September 24, 2026  

1:00pm to 3:00pm  

Morro Bay State Park  

Leader: Faylla Chapman  

Description: If you’ve walked the Marina Boardwalk and wondered about the specialized plants in the estuary, here’s your chance to learn more about this unique environment. Join biologist Faylla Chapman for an in-depth exploration of the salt marsh and mudflat habitats. Discover how our estuary was formed, how it constantly changes, and how native plants provide vital resources for migratory birds, humans, and marine mammals. We’ll walk the flat salt marsh flats and boardwalk trail, covering about 1 mile round trip. 

Restroom facilities are available.This field trip is not ADA accessible and the trip is open to all levels of experience.

Admission: This event is limited to 12 participants. Registrants selected for this event will be notified by email. Do not plan to attend this event until you have received confirmation that you were selected for the event.

REQUEST TO REGISTER

Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/46s8e6VfFiYYDY4R7

Directions: The Morro Bay State Park Marina is located across from the entrance to the Morro Bay State Park Campground. The address is: 10 State Park Road, Morro Bay, CA 93442. We will start at the South end of the Marina parking lot.

Bring a hat, water, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and dress in layers to accommodate wind and changing weather. Bathrooms are available in the area. 

Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org

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MCAS Field Trip - SEPT 27 - Oso Flaco Birding for Beginners

Oso Flaco Lake & Boardwalk [photo by Joanne Aasen]

Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents  

Oso Flaco Birding for Beginners  

September 27, 2026  

8:30am - 12:00pm  

Oso Flaco Lake, Arroyo Grande  

Leaders: Linda Signal & Tony Gayfield  

Description: Explore a rich variety of habitats on a relaxed birding walk at Oso Flaco Lake. Enjoy close-up views of waterfowl—and possibly elusive bitterns and rails—from the boardwalk overlooking the lake and marsh. We'll also bird two prime willow habitats known for attracting returning warblers and other migrants. This trip is intended for beginning and intermediate birders. 

The route includes 2–3 miles of slow-paced walking through riparian woodland, across the lake boardwalk, and into coastal sage scrub. The trail is mostly level, with a mix of boardwalk and packed trail—plus sand if we reach the beach. 

Please bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, and field guides (if you have them), and dress in layers for wind and changing conditions. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Restrooms are available at the trailhead.

This trip is ADA accessible. 

Admission: This event is limited to 12 participants. Registrants selected for this event will be notified by email. Do not plan to attend this event until you have received confirmation that you were selected for the event.

REQUEST TO REGISTER

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qVChio3zC4vFTN499

Directions: Meet at Oso Flaco parking lot, 3004 Oso Flaco Lake Road, Arroyo Grande. There is a $5 fee for parking (may or may not be in effect).

Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org

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MCAS Sponsored Classes at SLO Botanical Gardens...

To sign up for the events below, go to SLOBG calendar.

 

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MCAS Member Management System Upgrade

Morro Coast Audubon Society Member Management System Upgrade

 

System Upgrade Overview

The Morro Coast Audubon Society has implemented significant improvements to our member management system called Neon. This upgrade is designed to enhance your experience when interacting with us online.

 

Changes to Donation and Membership Forms

As part of this system upgrade, you will notice a refreshed appearance on the forms used for donations and membership payments. These updates aim to provide a more streamlined and user-friendly interface.

 

This change became effective on March 31, 2026. If you have any questions or difficulties, please contact us at MCAS@morrocoastaudubon.org.

To take full advantage of our new Neon member system—including member registration for field trips, programs, volunteer opportunities, and other MCAS activities—we encourage you, at any time, to activate your online member portal. You can view your donations and update personal information.

Use the Membership System Login link in the website's header to login to or create your account.

 

Thank you for your continued support.

Morro Coast Audubon Society

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MCAS Field Trip - AUG 22 - Marina Boardwalk

Birding at the Morro Bay Marina Boardwalk [by Bob Revel]  

REGISTRATION CLOSED.

Morro Coast Audubon Society Presents   

Marina Boardwalk  

August 22, 2026  

8:00am to 11:00am  

State Park Road, Morro Bay  

Description: Join Mark Mushkat for a Leisurely morning Bird Walk! Enjoy a relaxed morning stroll along the Boardwalk as we search for shorebirds, migrating species, and land birds inhabiting the coastal sage scrub. This peaceful outing offers great opportunities to observe a variety of birds in a beautiful coastal setting. The walk is approximately one mile, following a mix of boardwalk and dirt path. 

Special Requirement: This trip is for Intermediate and experienced birders. You must have an eBird account.

This field trip is ADA accessible and restrooms are available.

Admission: This event is limited to 12 participants. Registrants selected for this event will be notified by email. Do not plan to attend this event until you have received confirmation that you were selected for the event.

REQUEST TO REGISTER

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wzjGKyDERi8jphUz9

Directions: The Morro Bay State Park Marina is located across from the entrance to the Morro Bay State Park Campground. The address is: 10 State Park Road, Morro Bay, CA 93442. We will start at the South end of the Marina parking lot and bird our way around the boardwalk loop trail which is level. This loop provides us with views of the bay, estuary and the coastal sage scrub community of the peninsula. Bring a hat, water, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and dress in layers to accommodate wind and changing weather. Scopes and Cameras are welcomed. Restrooms are available nearby. 

Questions? Send email to: fieldtrips@morrocoastaudubon.org

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