Bird field trip to Chico Basin Ranch

PLEASE NOTE: You must register for this field trip (limit: 12 people) and complete the liability form when you register. Walk-up or impromptu participants will not be allowed. Other requirements are described below.

There is much to explore on the 87,000-acre Chico Basin Ranch. We'll spend 4 hours or so visiting the Banding Station, Headquarters Pond, Rose Pond, and possible other locations depending on what's being seen. Likely species will include Ladder-backed Woodpecker, which breeds there, Scaled Quail, Northern Mockingbird, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western/Cassin's Kingbird, MacGillivray's Warbler, Cassin's Sparrow, and possible migrants. Chico has a species list of over 350 birds, so who knows what we'll find!

Some of the dirt trails are fairly even, but a few are uneven. Be prepared to walk through some brush and through tumbleweed-packed Russian olive groves.

The ranch roads are rough, so high clearance is a must. Directions will be provided to registrants. We will meet at 6:45 at the Tejon Park-n-Ride in Colorado Springs. Note that this field trip is not accessible for those with mobility challenges.

The ranch charges a $10 fee.

By registering for and attending this field trip, you agree to the following:

-Please self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms, even if you are vaccinated, and use common sense. DO NOT attend if you if you had recent exposure to an individual with symptoms or confirmation of COVID-19. If you have any symptoms or even suspect you could have COVID-19 symptoms, do not sign up for this trip.
-Masks Outdoors: Masks are not required outdoors. However, we encourage unvaccinated people to wear a mask when interacting with people outside their household when outdoors and maintain social distancing of 6 feet.
-Masks Indoors: Fully vaccinated people can go without masks in public indoor spaces. Unvaccinated people are encouraged to continue wearing masks in all public indoor spaces.

Photo credit: Bill Maynard.