Photo: Mark Mitchell / Audubon Photography Awards

Love is in the air! Nests are being built and eggs are being laid. On the California Bird Atlas Big Weekend, come check out the romantic ghost town of Bennettville and look for breeding birds.

Likely lovebirds include White-crowned Sparrows, Dark-eyed Juncos, Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Cassin's Finches all engaging in activities from counter-singing and courtship to feeding nestlings and possibly the awkward first flights of fledglings.

We'll also hope to see Grey-crowned Rosy Finches foraging in the receding snowpack, American Pipits on display and be on the lookout for the majestic chicken, the White-tailed Ptarmigan, although they can be pretty shy mid-morning.

Other likely birds include Mountain Bluebird, Hermit Thrush and possibly Bald Eagle.

Meet at the Tioga Rd (Hwy 120) Saddlebag Lake turnoff at 8am.

Map link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/D2SveQ18xuLYNDMK7

Coordinates: 37°56'18.4"N, 119°14'54.6"W

Plan to hike 3-6 miles of rough trail or cross country. Expect to travel on and off snow. Hiking poles recommended. Bring water, sunscreen and snacks. Return by 1 pm. 

For questions or to RSVP (thank you!), email fieldtrips@easternsierrabirds.org.