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Phylo-birding at Alum Rock (San Jose)
We’ll use the diverse bird species and habitats of Alum Rock Park to focus on ways in which phylogenetic and biogeographic knowledge can enrich your birding experience. Located within the Alum Rock Canyon in east San Jose, this park is California’s oldest municipal park. Habitats include chaparral, riparian, mixed forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain. A handout will be provided.
Trip Type: Standard
Age Limit: Ages 14+; Young birders, ages 18 and under, must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
Capacity: 15
Price: free
Trip Difficulty: 3 miles, paved trails, packed-dirt trails, some hills (less than 300 ft elevation gain), some shade
Beginner Friendly
Meet: Eagle Rock parking lot
Directions: From US-101 or I-680 exit McKee Rd east towards the hills. Turn left onto Toyon Ave then turn right onto Penitencia Creek Rd. Continue on Penitencia for about 0.7 miles into the park. Once in the park, continue another 0.9 miles. The Eagle Rock parking lot is on your right. Latitude/Longitude: 37.393568, -121.815682
Facilities: bathroom, drinking water, cell phone service
Parking Type and Fees: paved parking, parking fees (credit card only)
Leaders: John Harshman (408) 406-4733
Banner Photo: Spotted Towhee by Vinayak Hebbagil
Questions? Email general questions to centennialevents@scvas.org or contact the trip leader for questions regarding the event.