FIELD TRIPS
"Join us for a birding field trip! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced birder, all are welcome. Our mission is to cultivate a love of birding by fostering education, connection with nature, and camaraderie among birders of all levels. Come share in the adventure and joy of birdwatching with us!"
​How to sign up for a field trip:
-
Scroll to the bottom of the page and fill out your name, contact info and select the trip you want to attend.
​​
-
Light drizzle does not necessarily cancel trips, but heavier rain will. For all trips, please wear appropriate clothing (layers are suggested), comfortable shoes, and bring snacks, water, hats, sunscreen, binoculars and field guides."
Questions or need help? Email fieldtrips@venturaaudubon.org
UPCOMING VAS FIELD TRIPS
VENTURA BOTANICAL GARDENS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025 - 9:00 AM
​
The Ventura Botanical Gardens includes over 100 acres with spectacular views of the California coastline, verdant agricultural vistas, the Channel Islands and Ojai’s Topa Topa peak. Each section represents a different Mediterranean climate zone and is designed to replicate plant communities as they occur in nature. As such they can attract a wide variety of resident and migratory bird species.
Directions: We will meet at the main entrance to the gardens, located at 567 Poli St behind City Hall.
BEGINNER BIRD WALK - VENTURA SETTLING PONDS
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2025 - 8:30 AM
​
This monthly walk is specifically for beginning birders. Space is limited to ensure the guides can provide a quality experience for those less familiar with bird identification. The walk will be at Ventura Settling Ponds where a great variety of birds can be found. The walk will introduce some of the species seen and provide tips on how to identify them.
Directions: We will meet at the entrance on Angler. Take Harbor Blvd to Spinnaker towards Ventura Harbor. Turn left on Angler, and the entrance is immediately on the right before the Water Treatment Plant. Limited parking available on Angler, or free parking in village lots during the week.
SIGN UP
VENTURA HILLS NATURE PRESERVE
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2025 - 8:30 AM
​
We are pleased to announce a special trip to the Ventura Hills Nature Preserve before it is open to the public. This 1,645-acre preserve, previously Mariano Rancho, provides a dramatic backdrop to historic downtown and midtown Ventura with the most high-profile hills in the region. The eastern edge of the preserve contains one of the famous “Two Trees.” The western corner of the property is adjacent to Ventura’s Grant Park.
ORMOND BEACH ARNOLD ROAD
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2025 - 8:30 AM
​
One of the top birding areas in Ventura County used by over 200 shorebird, raptor, and migratory bird species. Includes a protected nesting site for the endangered California Least Tern and the threatened Western Snowy Plover. Notable visitors can include Black-Necked Stilt, Yellow Headed Blackbird, and Peregrine Falcon. Walking will be mainly on dirt paths and sandy beaches.
