BIRDS & BEER with SFVAS - New Time! New Location!
2026-03-18 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Woodley Lakes Golf Course – Best Ball Bar, 6331 Woodley Avenue, Van nuys, 91406, United States
New route – and the times they are a changin’!! Get together at Best Ball Bar- Woodley Lakes Golf Course. Sign up HERE.
Start at the parking lot for the Woodley Lakes Golf Course at 6:30 PM, directions are below, look for a SFVAS sign. The plan for this walk is a brisk excursion along the bike path from the golf course parking lot to explore a couple golf course ponds, Woodley Creek, and turn around at the Great Horned Owl nest location. the total distance should be approximately 1.8 miles. We will arrive at the Best Ball bar at the golf course for snacks and no-host bar at about 7:30 PM.
We are asking people to RSVP for the walk and Best Ball Bar – Woodley Lakes Golf Course so we can make the appropriate arrangements and also contact you in the event of changes! Significant rain will cancel birding, will re-survey social hour! The walk and social hour are free but donations are appreciated – you make a donation using this link!
Best Ball Bar at Woodley Lakes Golf Course: 6331 Woodley Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91406. You need to turn west on “Lake Balboa”. It is 2 drives south of the Orange line.
Equipment and Clothing: Wear sturdy shoes, and otherwise dress appropriately for the weather. You may want to bring a flashlight.
More Information: Pat.Bates@sfvaudubon.org or San Fernando Valley Audubon at 747-237-3720.

SBWR Habitat Restoration
2026-03-21 08:00 - 11:00, 2026-04-18 08:00 - 11:30, 2026-05-16 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.

Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Areas Steering Committee
2026-03-24 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-04-28 18:30 - 20:30 | Balboa Sports Center, 17015 Burbank Blvd., Encino, CA, 91316
The Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Areas Steering Committee (SBWASC) oversees, in its advisory capacity, the wildlife reserve areas and other areas of present or potential natural value within the Sepulveda Basin, including the Los Angeles River and its tributaries; and supports policies and programs that ensure their long term preservation and protection. The SBWASC is advisory to the City of Los Angeles and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and members include Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley Audubon Societies, Angeles and San Fernando Valley Sierra Club, California Native Plant Society, Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains and Friends of the Los Angeles River.

In Person/Zoom Event: Monarch Butterflies
2026-03-26 18:30 - 20:00 | Encino Community Center, 4935 Balboa Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 91316, United States
Sara Cuadra‑Vargas of the Xerces Society will join us on Thursday, March 26, to share an in‑depth presentation on monarch butterflies. She will explore the western monarch’s extraordinary migration, the dramatic population decline of more than 95%, and the key stressors driving this loss. The talk will also highlight current conservation efforts across California and Baja California, along with practical actions the public can take to support monarch recovery.

Sara Cuadra‑Vargas is a conservation biologist based in Southern California, where she provides guidance to federal, state, and local land managers to preserve and enhance monarch overwintering sites along the California coast. She works closely with partners to support the long‑term resilience of these vital habitats.
PHOTO CREDIT: The Xerces Society

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:
Please sign up below if you’d like to be notified of this and other upcoming Zoom events. If you’ve previously signed up for notifications, you can skip this step – you’re already on the list!

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Hansen Dam
2026-03-29 08:00 - 10:30 | Hansen Dam Recreation Area, 10965 Dronfield Ave, Pacoima, CA, 91331, United States
This month only – outing will be Sunday 3/29/2026!! 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!
Usual 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 pat.bates@sfvaudubon.org or call 747-237-3720.

Birdathon 2026: Sheldon Arleta Park
2026-04-01 08:00 - 10:00 | CA
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Estimated Species: 25
Walk Leader: Rod Rodriguez
Contact: rodthebirder@gmail.com
Sheldon Arleta Park is located where the 5 and the 170 meet.
Meet in the parking lot oƯ Sheldon St. This is the only parking lot. (Google Map)

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Sepulveda Basin Bird Walk
2026-04-05 08:00 - 11:00, 2026-05-03 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.

A Bird Sit with Nature Journaling
2026-04-09 10:00 - 11:45, 2026-05-14 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 restrooms. What to bring: binoculars, a journal, something to write/draw with and a beverage/snack.
This event is limited to 10 people. To reserve your spot, contact Teri Carnesciali at teri.carnesciali@sfvaudubon.org or Mary Lou Sharp at mary.lou.sharp@sfvaudubon.org.
In the event of rain, extreme temperatures or high winds, the bird sit will be moved to the 3rd Thursday. If you’re unsure whether a bird sit is taking place, please contact Teri or Mary Lou to confirm.

Birdathon 2026: Lake Balboa
2026-04-11 08:00 - 10:00 | Lake Balboa/Beilenson Park, 6300 Balboa Blvd,, Van Nuys, CA, 91406, United States
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Estimated Species: 40
Walk Leader: Alexander deBarros
Contact: alexanderdebarros@yahoo.com

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

FREE Beginner Walks at Sepulveda Basin
2026-04-11 08:00 - 10:00, 2026-05-09 08:00 - 10:00 | Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Area, 6350 Woodley Ave, Van Nuys, CA, 91436, United States
San Fernando Valley Audubon invites you to guided tours of the reserve on Second Saturdays. The walks will include the many birds, other wildlife, habitat, and recovery from the devastating fire of September 2020. The emphasis of each tour will vary with participants’ interests.
Tours of this special place will last 1.5 – 2 hours, depending on the group’s wishes.
These Walks are for:

Beginning birdwatchers, including first timers
Families with school-age children
People who want to visit the Wildlife Reserve

Meeting Place: The Wildlife Area entrance and amphitheater are in the southeast part of Woodley Park. Meet at the small amphitheater on the south side of the rock-faced buildings.
Driving on Woodley Ave. north from Burbank or south from Victory Blvd., go ½ mile and turn east at the sign for the Japanese Garden. Continue straight (don’t turn into the garden) and drive past the Cricket Fields and around the tree in the middle of the road, continuing to the parking lot at the end of the road. Meet at the amphitheater. GPS coordinates of parking lot: 34.179942,-118.472595.
Equipment and Clothing: Wear sturdy shoes, layered clothing, and a cap or hat with a brim. Water and Sunscreen suggested. Binoculars are available to borrow. Please leave your pets home.
More Information: Natalie Beckman-Smith at 818-926-7825 or San Fernando Valley Audubon at 747-237-3720.
Heavy rain cancels. Bring plenty of curiosity.

BIRDS & BEER with SFVAS
2026-04-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Woodley Lakes Golf Course – Best Ball Bar, 6331 Woodley Avenue, Van nuys, 91406, United States
Sunset excursion to Lake Balboa and the Los Angeles River ! Get together at Best Ball Bar- Woodley Lakes Golf Course.

Meet at the Woodley Lakes Golf Course flag pole at7 PM, directions are below, look for a SFVAS sign. The plan is for a leisurly excursion crossing Hayvenhurst Creek from the golf course to the lovely Lake Balboa. We will head south along the east shore to the Los Angeles River, progressing down stream, then head back through the golf course – a total of approximately 1.6 miles. We will arrive at the Best Ball Bar at the golf course for appetizers and no-host bar at about 7:45 PM.
We are asking people to RSVP for the walk and Best Ball Bar – Woodley Lakes Golf Course so we can make the appropriate arrangements and also contact you in the event of changes! Significant rain will cancel birding, will re-survey social hour! The walk and social hour are free but donations are appreciated – you may make a donation using this link!
Best Ball Bar at Woodley Lakes Golf Course: 6331 Woodley Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91406. You need to turn west on “Lake Balboa”. It is 2 drives south of the Orange line.
Equipment and Clothing: Wear sturdy shoes, and otherwise dress appropriately for the weather. You may want to bring a flashlight and drinking water.
More Information: Pat.Bates@sfvaudubon.org or San Fernando Valley Audubon at 747-237-3720.

Birdathon 2026: Harmon Canyon Preserve
2026-04-18 07:30 - 09:30 | Harmon Canyon Preserve, 7511 Foothill Rd, Ventura, 93003, United States
Start Time: 7:30 AM
Estimated Species: 45
Walk Leader: Kris Ohlenkamp
Contact: kris.ohlenkamp@sbcglobal.net

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Birdathon 2026: Serrania Park, Woodland Hills
2026-04-18 08:00 - 10:00 | Serrania Park, 20726 Wells Dr,, Woodland Hills, CA, 91364, United States
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Estimated Species: 30
Walk Leader: Paula Orlovich & Jolene Herz
Contact: RSVP (747) 237-3720

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Birdathon 2026: Malibu Creek State Park
2026-04-19 08:00 - 10:00 | Malibu Creek State Park, 1925 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91302, United States
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Estimated Species: 35-40
Walk Leader: Katheryn & David Barton
Contact: katheryn.barton@gmail.com

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Malibu Creek State Park
2026-04-19 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.

O’Melveny Park Bird Walk
2026-04-21 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.

Birdathon 2026: O’Melveny Park
2026-04-21 08:30 - 10:30 | O’Melveny Park, 17300 Sesnon Blvd., Granada Hills, CA, 91344, United States
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Estimated Species: 30
Walk Leader: Paula Orlovich
Contact: RSVP (747) 237-3720

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Zoom Event: The Genetic Rescue Toolkit
2026-04-23 19:00 - 20:30 | CA
Revive and Restore is a non-profit organization that uses biotechnology for their Bird Conservation Program.
Climate change and habitat loss have led to declines in many bird species. The Bird Conservation Program is geared towards restoring genetic diversity to dwindling bird populations, offering immunity to invasive disease, and using biotechnologies to provide adaptive traits to allow birds to overcome climate change. Their work centers around “the Genetic Toolkit.” The toolkit is an integrated platform of genomics (study of genetic data of a population), and reproductive technologies to enhance existing conservation measures, and create new opportunities to save species. Ben Novak, the lead scientist and our event speaker, is working to use these technologies for the de-extinction of the passenger pigeon, as well as innovations leading to conservation of all living endangered birds.
Additional info/resources:
https://reviverestore.org/projects/about-the-passenger-pigeon/
https://reviverestore.org/biotech-for-birds/
TED Talk: Intended Consequences of Helping Nature Thrive

Born in western North Dakota, Ben’s childhood immersion in the wilderness—witnessing reintroduced herds of bison and bighorn sheep—sparked his passion for conservation. Ben earned degrees in Ecology and Evolution at Montana State University and UC Santa Cruz. He manages over 20 projects developing Artificial intelligence genomics tools and reproductive technologies. He has led genetic rescue for the black-footed ferret and the de-extinction effort to restore the passenger pigeon.

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Hansen Dam
2026-04-25 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.

Birdathon 2026: Hansen Dam
2026-04-25 08:00 - 10:00 | Hansen Dam Recreation Area, 10965 Dronfield Ave, Pacoima, CA, 91331, United States
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Estimated Species: 40
Walk Leader: Pat Bates & Hansen Harriers
Contact: batesbird@gmail.com

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Birdathon 2026: Aliso Canyon Park
2026-05-02 08:30 - 10:30 | Aliso Canyon Park, 18041 Rinaldi St, Granada Hills, CA, 91344, United States
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Estimated Species: 30
Walk Leader: Charlie Wilken
Contact: cswilken@gmail.com

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Birdathon 2026: Sepulveda Basin
2026-05-03 08:00 - 10:00 | Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Area, 6350 Woodley Ave, Van Nuys, CA, 91436, United States
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Estimated Species: 60
Walk Leader: Alexander deBarros
Contact: alexanderdebarros@yahoo.com

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Birdathon 2026: Glendale Narrows
2026-05-09 08:00 - 10:00 | CA
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Estimated Species: 35
Walk Leader: Bruin Birding Club & Junco Grad Students
Contact: jfdiliberto@g.ucla.edu
We will plan to park and meet at this area: 300 Paula Ave., Glendale, CA 91201. There is a
lot there for parking at the Riverwalk but there are additional spaces on the pullout outside
of the tiny lot. We will meet around the parking lot area and then walk towards the path on
the river. We tentatively plan to walk to the Mariposa bridge and back (~2.25mi). If there is
interest/it’s not too hot we’ll go further or cross the river. (Google Map)

Looking for more info on this year’s Birdathon? Please check the links below!
Birdathon 2026 Official Announcement
Make a Pledge or Donation

Birds & Beer with SFVAS
2026-05-14 18:30 - 21:00 | Woodley Lakes Golf Course – Best Ball Bar, 6331 Woodley Avenue, Van nuys, 91406, United States
Evening excursion to Lake Balboa and the Bull Creek Restoration Area ! Sunset get together at Best Ball Bar- Woodley Lakes Golf Course.
Meet at the Woodley Lakes Golf Course flag pole at 6:30 PM, directions are below. Plan for a leisurly excursion crossing Hayvenhurst Creek from the golf course to the lovely Lake Balboa. We will wander along the north shore to the trail east of Bull Creek, turning north then crossing the footbridge and circling through the Bull Creek Restoration Area, crossing the southern footbridge to follow the lake to the the golf course path – a total of approximately 1.2 miles. Likely LA28 venues will be noted. We will arrive at the Best Ball Bar at the golf course for appetizers and no-host bar at about 7:30 PM.
We are asking people to RSVP for the walk and Best Ball Bar – Woodley Lakes Golf Course so we can make the appropriate arrangements and also contact you in the event of changes! Significant rain will cancel birding, will re-survey social hour! The walk and social hour are free but donations are appreciated – you may make a donation using this link!
Best Ball Bar at Woodley Lakes Golf Course: 6331 Woodley Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91406. You need to turn west on “Lake Balboa”. It is 2 drives south of the Orange line. You may also access the venue by driving through the Lake Balboa park from Balboa Blvd. – continue all the way around to the golf course.
Equipment and Clothing: Wear sturdy shoes, and otherwise dress appropriately for the weather. You may want to bring drinking water dependiong on temperature. Bring binoculars and cameras!
NOTE: This event will feature a birding books donation from one of our members. These books will be available to take home during our social hour.
More Information: pat.bates@sfvaudubon.org or San Fernando Valley Audubon at 747-237-3720.
