San Fernando Valley Audubon Society

Postponed to next year: Fire Safe Solutions for Design, Building, and Upkeep
2025-10-23 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | CA
Feeling overwhelmed about wildfire in California? You are not alone, but the good news is that there is a lot you can do to reduce risk and help your family and community withstand wildfire. In her current work with the University of California Fire Network, Yana Valachovic has conducted post-fire assessments in California and Colorado, including in Altadena and Palisades. For this program, she will bring key insights into building and landscaping design and maintenance that make a difference in building survivability and property protection. Yana will give a brief overview of her research findings and share practical, low-cost, science-based actions that can help you protect your house and family. As Yana says, “wildfire adaptation will not occur overnight, but there is a pathway and clear evidence to help all of us live successfully with wildfire now and into the future”.

Yana Valachovic, a scientist with the University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources Fire Network, is passionate about helping communities learn to live with wildfire. She works at many scales and is a state leader in developing and delivering local and state strategies to improve wildfire resilience. Yana has over 25 years of experience in county government and community engagement. She also has a perspective on how California is attempting to pivot to address the wildfire and insurance crises and holds roles with the Governor’s Wildfire Forest Resilience Task Force and the Wildfire Mitigation Committee. In addition to her research experience, she also has practical skills gained from a ‘back to the land’ upbringing where her family believed plants were more important than people—they provided essential food, didn’t talk back, and never started wars. Living off the grid, Yana gained an early appreciation for building design, construction, and maintenance; a love of plants; and an appreciation of how a community can come together to support each other’s needs.
She was also Humboldt County’s 2024 Birder of the Year for the discovery of a purple gallinule!
Yana Valachovic
Forest Advisor and County Director (Humboldt and Del Norte)
UC ANR Fire Network- Community Resiliency and Built Environment
UC Policy Institute- Associate Director, Natural Ecosystems and Working Landscapes
RPF #2740
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O’Melveny Park Bird Walk
2025-10-21 08:30 - 10:30, 2025-09-16 08:30 - 11:00, 2025-06-17 08:30 - 10:30 | O’Melveny Park, 17300 Sesnon Blvd., Granada Hills, CA, 91344, United States
O’Melveny Park and the trails which begin there into Bee Canyon provide an interesting contrast. The park is home to an orange grove and trails through sycamores and alders. The Bee Canyon trail is chaparral and riparian area set between high rock walls. The last rest area for birds going north over the Santa Susana Mountains, this is an excellent migrant trap.
The park is named after Henry W. O’Melveny, in 1927 one of the original members of the California State Parks Commission. Originally called C.J. Ranch, O’Melveny Park was purchased in 1941 by attorney John O’Melveny of O’Melveny & Myers and later acquired by The Trust for Public Land and turned into a park.
At 675 acres, O’Melveny Park is the second largest public park in Los Angeles after Griffith Park. O’Melveny Park is managed by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks.
The park is unstaffed. It provides large grassy areas, picnic tables, and is known for its extensive hiking and horse trails and the stunning views they lead to. Near the entrance is a grove of citrus trees.
Accessibility at O’Melveny Park

Parking

Restrooms

Benches (Shaded in Spring/Summer)

The outing is approximately two-thirds accessible, with some travel on manicured lawns. Midway through, we transition to hiking up hillside trails. Those who prefer not to hike can relax on shaded benches or conclude their outing at that point. Upon our return, we take a different route back to the starting point.
Directions: Take the 118/Ronald Reagan Freeway and exit at Balboa Blvd. Turn north, driving two miles to Sesnon, turn left going west 0.6 miles, turn right at park entrance. Meet in the parking lot.
Events may be canceled due to inclement weather. If you’re unsure whether a walk is taking place, please contact your walk leader at 747-237-3720.

Malibu Creek State Park
2025-10-19 08:00 - 11:30, 2025-09-21 08:00 - 11:30, 2025-07-20 08:00 - 11:30, 2025-06-15 08:00 - 11:30 | Malibu Creek State Park, 1925 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91302, United States
Kathy and Dave
Participants in this outing will enjoy a leisurely stroll along Malibu Creek, its oak and sycamore woodlands set amidst a stunning backdrop of chaparral-covered slopes and rocky buttes. Birds, deer, bobcat, butterflies, reptiles and, in season, a bewildering array of wildflowers can be found in this jewel of the Santa Monica Mountains, now mostly recovered from the devastating Woolsey fire. Our focus will be on finding and identifying many of the over 200 species of birds that have been recorded here. You can expect to see thirty to fifty species during these three to four hour walks, depending on the season. Common resident species include Acorn Woodpecker, Oak Titmouse, California Quail, and White-breasted Nuthatch, and spring brings us Black-headed Grosbeak, Blue Grosbeak, and Lazuli Buntings. Meet at the main lot, which is the second (lower) day-use parking lot per the Google map. Entrance to the park is on the west side of Las Virgenes Road, just south of Mulholland Hwy.
Entrance fee is $12 per car. Click location below for more about MSCP and an Accessibility Note.
Walks will be cancelled in the event of rain. If you’re unsure whether a walk is taking place, please contact your walk leaders at 747-237-3720.

A Bird Sit with Nature Journaling
2025-10-09 10:00 - 11:45, 2025-09-11 10:00 - 11:45, 2025-06-12 10:00 - 11:45 | O’Melveny Park, 17300 Sesnon Blvd., Granada Hills, CA, 91344, United States
A Bird Sit is an alternative approach to birding. Instead of extended walking and standing, it involves finding a comfortable spot in nature to sit, slow down, be in the moment, and notice details and behavior patterns.
A Bird Sit is not list-driven. It is not always trying to get the next bird. It is a way of expanding your awareness of and connection to birds (and all of nature!) And recording your Bird Sit experiences in a journal using words, numbers, and/or pictures can be very rewarding!
If you would like to mindfully connect with birds and all of nature, join us at the picnic tables near the bathrooms. What to bring: a cushion or a comfortable chair, a beverage/snack, binoculars, a journal, and something to write/draw with.
This event is limited to 10 people. To reserve a spot, contact Teri Carnesciali at teri.carnesciali@sfvaudubon.org.
In the event of rain, sit will be moved to the 3rd Thursday. If you’re unsure whether a sit is taking place, please contact Teri to confirm.

Sepulveda Basin Bird Walk
2025-10-05 08:00 - 11:00, 2025-09-07 08:00 - 11:00, 2025-08-03 08:00 - 11:00, 2025-07-06 08:00 - 11:00, 2025-06-01 08:00 - 11:00 | Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Area, 6350 Woodley Ave, Van Nuys, CA, 91436, United States
The first Sunday of every month brings San Fernando Valley Audubon Society’s iconic Sepulveda Basin Bird Outing. Over 300 avian species have been reported to eBird along the route of this approximate 2 mile tour, from the huge American White Pelican wintering in the Wildlife Lake to the tiniest of hummingbirds there year round. It is common to see over 60 species of birds on a three hour outing beginning at 8 am.
The Sepulveda Basin is a 2,100+ acre flood control basin, with the Los Angeles River and several tributaries coursing through it. Various portions are occupied by golf courses, sports fields and facilities, agriculture, military and sanitation facilities, and two wildlife areas. The SFVAS outing traverses the wildlife area east of Woodley Avenue through riparian habitat, a portion of which is carefully nurtured to promote native flora. The pathway winds between the Wildlife Lake and Haskell Creek, both of which are supplied with reclaimed water year round. If conditions permit, the outing extends south of Burbank Boulevard to the Sepulveda Dam and the Los Angeles River.
The area has recovered remarkably from a devastating fire in September 2020. Though most of the large trees were lost leaving skeletal remains (and homes for cavity nesters), new sycamores and cottonwoods are quickly emerging.

There is ample free parking in the “amphitheater” area of Woodley Park, where the walk begins. Most of the tour is flat and on hard packed decomposed granite or dirt pathways and is wheelchair accessible with a small detour required near the river.
The outing will be canceled in the event of rain or flooding (it is, after all, a flood basin). If you’re unsure whether a walk is taking place, please contact your walk leaders at 747-237-3720.

Bull Creek Beautification!
2025-10-04 09:00 - 12:00 | CA
Bull Creek Cleanup – Join us to help clean up one of our Sepulveda Basin wildlife Areas!
LAKE BALBOA Clean Up- CD6 Cleanups (1) (1)

Hansen Dam
2025-09-27 08:00 - 10:00, 2025-08-23 08:00 - 10:00, 2025-07-26 08:00 - 10:00, 2025-06-28 08:00 - 10:00 | Hansen Dam Recreation Area, 10965 Dronfield Ave, Pacoima, CA, 91331, United States
Hansen Dam is a huge area with varied habitat, and like the Sepulveda Basin is part of the City of Los Angeles flood control infrastructure operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Unlike the Sepulveda Basin, in the event of heavy and prolonged precipitation water may be retained behind Hansen Dam for prolonged periods. This means it is not possible to follow the same route for all outings. In general they cover between 1 and 3 miles, and will be geared to the abilities of participants.
Reportedly over 280 species of birds have been seen at Hansen Dam, which holds the record for most species seen in a day in the San Fernando Valley at 120. The area we traverse is largely riparian adjacent to the lake and swamp, but also includes grassy lawns dotted with trees, Tujunga Creek, and the large rock rip-rap areas extending out from the dam (Rock Wrens!). Typically we see 30-50 species there on an outing, and it can be interesting. For example diving ducks in a parking lot submerged under 3’ of water!
Outings are on the fourth Saturday of every month at 8 AM. Please meet at the Ranger Station. Walks will be canceled in the event of rain. If you’re unsure whether a walk is taking place, please contact your walk leader at batesbird@gmail.com or call 747-237-3720.

In Person/Zoom Event: Neighborhood Wildlife
2025-09-25 18:30 - 20:15 | Encino Community Center, 4935 Balboa Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 91316, United States
Dana Stangel of Teranga Ranch will give a presentation about coexisting with neighborhood native wildlife at San Fernando Valley Audubon’s first meeting of the year. This presentation will be a hybrid meeting (in-person and on Zoom) on Thursday, September 25, 2025. The meeting location, Encino Community Center Auditorium, will open its doors at 6:30. At 6:45 Zoom will go live and there will be preliminary announcements about the Chapter. The presentation will start at 7:00 and the question-and-answer period will be held until about 8:15.

Teranga Ranch is a wildlife education organization that teaches Californians about local wildlife and how to coexist with them. They visit schools and homeowner association meetings to discuss humane alternatives to traps and poisons. They also lead field trips to see wildlife throughout Southern California.
Dana Stangel is the founder and executive director of Teranga Ranch. She is a Credentialed Biology teacher, a California Naturalist, and has worked with wildlife and the public since 1998.

Attend Our Hybrid Meeting!
Come in Person:
Encino Community Center
4935 Balboa Blvd.
Encino, CA 91316
Doors Open: 6:30 pm – Presentation at 7 pm
Refreshments Served
OR
Join by Zoom:
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SBWR Habitat Restoration - Cancelled - Too Hot!
2025-08-23 08:00 - 11:00 | Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Area, 6350 Woodley Ave, Van Nuys, CA, 91436, United States
SFVAS is continuing to work with our partners, the Friends of the Los Angeles River (FoLAR) and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) on the ongoing Habitat Restoration efforts in the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve (SBWR). This group gathers every Fourth Saturday morning to work and weed. If you would like to get involved and get your hands dirty, this is for you!
SFVAS offers an Audubon guided walk after the work. (Volunteer Walk Leaders always needed.)
What is this all about? See this video from FoLAR.
NOTE: Start time may be subject to change. Please check the FoLAR website for latest details and sign up before attending this event.

FOLAR River Fest
2025-08-03 14:00 - 20:00 | Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 N. Spring Street, LOS ANGELES, CA, 90012, United States
https://folar.org/folar-event/riverfest-2025

Young Birders Walk
2025-06-29 09:00 - 11:00 | Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Area, 6350 Woodley Ave, Van Nuys, CA, 91436, United States
Join the Audubon Society’s SFV Chapter Eagle Eyes Young Birders Club!
Are you curious about the world of birds? Do you love exploring nature and discovering feathered friends in your own backyard or local park? The Eagle Eyes Young Birders Club is the perfect place for you to connect with nature and learn about the fascinating world of birds!
What We Offer:

Fun Outdoor Adventures: Join us for bird watching hikes and local outings that help you learn to identify birds in suburban habitats.
Nature Journaling: This activity allows each participant to share their experience using drawing tools. Leaders will provide instruction and guidance.
Interactive Learning: Our experienced leader will guide you in spotting birds and understanding their behaviors, all while sharing tips on how to protect local wildlife.
Community & Friendships: Meet other children who share your love for nature and make new friends through fun, bird-themed events and challenges!

Why Birding?
Bird watching is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to connect with the environment, learn about conservation, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world around you. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get outside, explore your neighborhood, and enjoy the beauty of suburban wildlife!
Who Can Join?
The Eagle Eyes Young Birders Club is open to all children aged 6-12 who are excited to discover the amazing variety of birds living right in their own backyards and local parks. No prior experience needed—just bring your curiosity! All children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the event.
Ready to Explore?
Become part of a fun, supportive community where your passion for birds can soar. Sign up today and start your adventure with the Audubon Society’s Eagle Eyes Young Birders Club!
Outings will occur on the last Sunday of every month except for July and August. Locations will vary and will be announced in advance. We will have binoculars available to borrow, and journals and art supplies available to keep for children who sign up.
For more information, contact Paula at the SFV Audubon Chapter at 747.237.3720.
Learn. Explore. Protect.
Let’s discover the wonders of birds together!

Summer Solstice - Chatsworth Nature Preserve
2025-06-21 09:00 - 13:00 | CA
Opening Ceremony with Native American Blessing
Guided Nature Hikes • Storytelling
Live Animal Exhibitions • Environmental and
Community Resource Fair • Food Trucks
Bring hats, refillable water bottles, sunscreen and
comfortable walking shoes. No dogs, drones,
smoking, bikes or scooters.
Location & Parking: bit.ly/2naHjvT
Entry gate on Valley Circle Blvd, west of Plummer St.
Street parking available with limited on-site parking.
ladwp.com/CNPevent

2025 Conservation Awards Luncheon
2025-06-14 12:00 - 15:00 | CA
SFVAS 2025 Conservation Awards Luncheon on Saturday, June 14 @ 12PM!
BUY TICKETS HERE Tickets available May 2 through June 7! We are hosting our annual Awards Luncheon at the Braemar Country Club in Tarzana.Please join us to celebrate the Honorees:Muriel Kotin and Lynn Maddox, Chapter Service AwardsandCalifornia Native Plant Society, Conservation AwardBraemar Country Club4001 Reseda Blvd. in TarzanaDoors open at 12PM. Buffet luncheon will be served at 12:45.Tickets are $45.

Caballero Cyn. Trail Birding
2025-06-14 09:30 - 11:30 | CA
Begin the day with some bird watching before attending the 2025 Conservation Awards Luncheon! Start at the Caballero Canyon Trailhead near Braemar Country Club. The walk is mostly flat, there is ample street parking. Access from the south end of Reseda Boulevard. From the 101 Freeway, exit at Reseda Boulevard and head south. Look for the trailhead on the right before you reach the end of the road. Leader: Alexander deBarros

Young Birders Walk - CANCELED
2025-05-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Serrania Park, 20726 Wells Dr,, Woodland Hills, CA, 91364, United States

Birdathon 2025: Hansen Dam - date change
2025-05-24 08:15 - 10:15 | Hansen Dam Recreation Area, 10965 Dronfield Ave, Pacoima, CA, 91331, United States
Start Time: 8:15 AM
Estimated Species: 40
Walk Leader: Pat Bates
Contact: batesbird@gmail.com

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2025 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation
