Friends of the Desert Mountains Series: Birds of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument

Journey into the remarkable world of birds found throughout the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. Discover habitats from desert washes and palm oases to high-elevation forests support a wide variety of birds. Learn about the unique adaptations that allow birds to thrive in the desert, the seasonal migrations that bring different species to the region, and the important role birds play in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Whether you are an experienced birder or simply curious about the wildlife around you, this presentation will deepen your appreciation for the birds that call the Monument home and the importance of protecting their habitats for generations to come. The lecture will be given by Kurt Leuschner, a professor of natural resources at College of the Desert in Palm Desert, California. He teaches courses on conservation, entomology, field ornithology, native plants, desert ecology, and GPS navigation. Leuschner also teaches weekend courses and workshops on birds and birdwatching, insects, and backyard habitats for the Desert Institute, the Desert Studies Center, Cal State Fullerton Extension, and other desert agencies and organizations. This series is presented in partnership with Friends of the Desert Mountains.