May 11, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginners’ Bird Walk
Celebrate International Migratory Bird Day on this walk with Georgina Schwartz (210/342-2073) at the Judson Nature Trails. From Broadway at the 5900 block, turn west on Ogden Street to the stop sign at Greely St. and the sign to the Nature Trails. Turn left, go one block and turn right on Viesca to the parking lot on the left before the swimming pool.

May 11, Saturday, 7:30 AM
Avenue A
Celebrate International Migratory Bird Day with us! Meet leader Tim Katafias (tmkatafias@gmail.com) in parking area on Red Oak north of Avenue A. Turn north on Red Oak from Mulberry in Brackenridge Park. Bring water and snacks.

May 16, Thursday, 7:30 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) in the main parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10 E to the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for the brown park sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go 3 miles. The park is on the left just before the Cibolo Creek crossing. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

May 28, Tuesday, 7:30 AM
Medina River Natural Area
Meet leader Helen Rejzek (hmr78253@gmail.com, 210/679-7437) in the parking lot of the natural area. From Loop 410 S, take the Palo Alto/SH 16 exit. Drive 4.2 miles south on SH 16; the park entrance is on the east side (left) just before the bridge. Bring water, snacks and bug spray.

Looking Ahead

consult newsletter

Field Trip listing is usually updated the during first and third week of each month. The Beginner's walk is scheduled on the second Saturday of each month.

Regular hours for the public are now Saturdays and Sundays from 8 AM to 4 PM with other times by appointment. Call the Center at 210-628-1639 for more information. The gate will be opened from the Visitor's Center after you push the button at the gate. A small entrance fee is charged. You may become a member of the Center at $40 for an individual, $60 for your family for one year.

Birding trips ($5 entrance and trip fee):

May 5, 1st Sunday, 8:00 AM with Mike Creese
May 12, 2nd Sunday, 8:00 AM with Curt McCamy
May 14, 2nd Tuesday, 8:00 AM with Helen Rejzek and Georgina Schwartz
May 19, 3rd Sunday, 8:00 AM with Helen Rejzek and Georgina Schwartz
May 25, 4th Saturday, 8:00 AM, monthly count.

Check the Mitchell Lake Audubon Center website for the very latest schedule.

2013 Trips

January 6, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Southwest High School
Meet leader Helen Rejzek (210/679-7437) at the main parking lot by the athletic building at Southwest High School, 11914 Dragon Lane. From S Loop 410, take Old Pearsall Road exit. Turn right and go past the Medina River bridge. Entrance to the school is on your right. When you enter the gate, drive to the end of the road. You will see the large parking lot at the athletic complex. Bring snacks and water; lunch at local restaurant.

January 10, Thursday, 8:00 AM
McAllister Park
Meet Bill Zwartjes (210/495-5123) at the first parking lot on the left about 1/4 mile inside the park. The park is 0.75 mile north of Starcrest, just past the police station on Jones Maltsberger. Bring snacks and water; lunch at a local restaurant.

January 12, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

January 13,Sunday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) in the parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10 Eastto the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown park sign at Schaefer Rd. Turn right and go 3 miles to the park. Entrance will be on your left before the creek. Bring snacks and water.

January 22, Tuesday, 1:00 - 3:00 PM
SeaWorld San Antonio (Bird Departments)
We will tour the Bird House back area, Flamingo Exhibit, and Polar building. Please RSVP to Patsy Inglet (tpinglet@satx.rr.com or 210/698-8445) by Friday, January 18, and you will be sent detailed directions.

January 24, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Warbler Woods
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) at Don and Susan Schaezler's sanctuary in Cibolo. Take IH-35 north toward Austin. Take Exit 176, Wiederstein Road. Turn right on Wiederstein at the overpass. Turn left at the next road, Old Wiederstein. After you pass Dean Road, the Schaezler property begins on the right. Look for the green mailbox, 19349 Old Wiederstein.

January 27, Sunday, 1:00 PM
Skimmer Boat Trip in Rockport
At this time, there is still space available on this trip. Please contact Helen Rejzek (210/679-7437) if you
would like to go. Meet at the Skimmer's dock no later than 12:20 PM. The Skimmer is located at 216 N Fulton Beach Road. Take TX 35 through Rockport. Turn right at Cactus Street. Turn left on Beach St./S Fulton Beach Road. You will see the sign for Rockport Birding and Kayak. Drinks and food are allowed on board. Group rate is $45; $50 if we can't fill the boat. Please RSVP as soon as possible. Payment in advance; nonrefundable unless your slot can be filled.

February 2, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Canyon Lake Area
Meet leader Bob Doe (830/438-8399) at the Valero station at the intersection of US 281 and Farm Road 306 in north Comal County. During the morning, we will look for loons and Greater Scaup on the lake and wintering sparrows in the lakeside brush. In the afternoon, we will bird the trails along the river below the dam. Plan on picnic lunch at Little Jacob Creek Park. Please contact Bob if you are planning to attend.

February 3, Sunday, 8:00 AM
New Braunfels Fields
Meet leader Bob Doe (830/438-8399) at the parking lot of the Clear Springs Cafe in New Braunfels. Since we will be driving the roads next to the agricultural fields, it will be easier to carpool from the cafe. This trip is not appropriate for children and new birders as we will be spending a lot of time searching for rare, local, and hard-to-see birds, which include longspurs, cranes, and sparrows. From San Antonio, take IH 35 north to New Braunfels. Exit at State Highway 46. Take SH 46 east (toward Seguin). The Clear Springs Cafe will be on your right. Bring snacks and water; lunch locally. Please contact Bob if you are planning to attend.

February 5, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) in the main parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10 E to the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for the brown park sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go 3 miles. The park is on the left just before the Cibolo Creek crossing. Bring water
and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

February 9, Saturday, 8:00 am
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

February 23, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Haggard Ranch
Meet Metha Haggard on her ranch in southwest Bexar County. Go south on IH 35 about 4 miles south of Loop 1604 and take Exit 137 (Shepherd Road) off of IH 35. Go left over the interstate, take another left on the northbound access road. Drive 0.5 mile to gate (cattle guard). Combination for the gate is 2020; please make sure the gate is closed once you are through. Go over the second cattle guard and go left at the fork to the house. Bring water, snacks, and lunch.
For info, contact Metha (210/622-3886).

February 24, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Warbler Woods
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) at Don and Susan Schaezler's sanctuary in Cibolo. Take IH-35 north toward Austin. Take Exit 176, Wiederstein Road. Turn right on Wiederstein at the overpass. Turn left at the next road, Old Wiederstein. After you pass Dean Road, the Schaezler property begins on the right. Look for the green mailbox, 19349 Old Wiederstein.

March 2, Saturday, 8:00 AM
King Ranch, Kingsville, TX
We will meet at the historic King Ranch in Kingsville and spend half a day traveling by van around the ranch as we look for birds. Cost is $37 per person. Trip limited to 16 SAAS members and all spaces are filled.

March 7, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Southside Lions Park
Meet Bill Zwartjes (210/495-5123) at the parking lot on the south side of the lake. To get to the park from the north, take I-37 to E. Southcross (exit 138A) and go east to Pecan Valley Dr. Turn left and go 0.5 miles north to the park on your right. Go around the lake and park in the parking area to your right. From the south, exit at Pecan Valley Dr. (exit 136) and go past Southcross 0.5 miles to the park. Bring water and snacks. Lunch at a local restaurant.

March 9, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

March 10, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) in the parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10 East to the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown park sign at Schaefer Rd. Turn right and go 3 miles to the park. Entrance will be on your left before the creek. Bring snacks and water.

March 16 and 17, Saturday and Sunday
Kickapoo Caverns and Vicinity
Join leader Graham Floyd (503/705-8046) at the Kickapoo Caverns State Park to search for the Elf Owl on Saturday evening. During the day on Saturday and Sunday, we will bird in both Edwards and Kinney Counties looking for spring migrants. Camping is possible in the park and Brackettville has a hotel. Carpooling is strongly encouraged. Contact Graham to RSVP.

March 20, Wednesday, 8:00 AM
Friedrich Wilderness Park
Meet leader Helen Rejzek (hmr78253@gmail.com, 210/679-7437) in the main parking area of the park. The park is about 15 miles from downtown San Antonio. Take IH-10 West past Loop 1604. Take the Dominion Drive exit #552. Drive about 1.5 miles and take the turnaround under the interstate, then take the second right turn on Milsa. Milsa makes a left turn, the park is on the right. Trails are steep and rocky, wear suitable footwear. Bring water and snacks.

March 24, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Choke Canyon State Park, Calliham Unit
Meet leader Mike Creese (mfcreese@yahoo.com or 210/479-5552) at the entrance parking lot of the Calliham Unit. Go south on I-37 and take the exit to Three Rivers. In town, turn west on FM 72 and go past the Southshore Unit for about 10 miles. The road to the park is on the right. Bring water, snacks, and lunch.

March 28, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Warbler Woods
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) at Don and Susan Schaezler's sanctuary in Cibolo. Take IH-35 north toward Austin. Take Exit 176, Wiederstein Road. Turn right on Wiederstein at the overpass. Turn left at the next road, Old Wiederstein. After you pass Dean Road, the Schaezler property begins on the right. Look for green mailbox, 19349 Old Wiederstein.

March 30, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Land Heritage Institute
Meet leaders Patsy and Alan Kuentz
(apkuentz@aol.com, 210/749-7196 or 210/422-3218) at the convenience store at the intersection of Hwy 16 and Loop 1604 West promptly at 8:00 AM. Follow I-35 from downtown and take Exit 149 Poteet/Palo Alto Road. Follow access road for about a mile and turn left on Poteet/Jourdanton Freeway/Hwy 472, which turns right to Palo Alto Road/Hwy 16 at Loop 410.Continue for about 6 miles past 410 to store at corner of Hwy 16 and Loop 1604. From the store, we will convoy to the LHI property on Neal Road. There is a $3 per person donation. Bring snacks and water.

April 3, Wednesday, 8:00 AM
Lost Maples State Natural Area
Meet Tom and Patsy Inglet at the entry station/visitor center, about 1.75 hours from SA. Bring $5 for day use fee or use State Parks Pass. For directions to Lost Maples, see our birding locations page. Cell phones may not work in the area; call visitor center if necessary, 830/966-3413. We will hike the Maple and Lower East Trails to see Golden-cheeked Warblers and other spring visitors. Optional hike to the upper East Trail and back to the ponds to see Black-capped Vireo. Wear good hiking shoes; bring hiking sticks if you want. Bring water, snacks, and lunch. RSVP to Inglets: tpinglet@satx.rr.com.

April 6, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) in the main parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10 E to the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for the brown park sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go 3 miles. The park is on the left just before the Cibolo Creek crossing. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

April 7, Sunday, 7:30 AM
Maverick Ranch
Meet Mary and Bebe Fenstermaker (830/981-4477) at the gate to their ranch on Boerne Stage Road in NW Bexar County. Exit I-10 at Leon Springs. Turn left on Boerne Stage Road, drive 3 miles to stop sign, turn right on Boerne Stage Road. Go 1.4 miles to their gate on the left. The gate will be locked after we meet, so please be on time. Bring lunch, snacks, and water.

April 13, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

April 13, Saturday, 9:00 AM--note start time
Brazos Bend State Park
Meet Mariann Golden (210/415-4661) at the park ranger station. Entry fee or use State Parks Pass. Bring lunch, snacks, and water; dress for the weather. Directions are from Sealy. Go south on TX 36 to FM 1462 and turn left on FM 1462, then FM 762 to the park entrance road on the right. Drive to ranger station about one hour from Sealy. Sealy is about 2 hours from San Antonio. Park address is 21901 FM 762, Needville, TX 77461. Phone is 979/553-5102.

April 14, Sunday, 7:00 AM--note early start time
Attwater Prairie Chicken Festival
Festival is free (donations accepted). For info about festival: 979/234-3021 or check their website. Meet at the refuge at 7:00 AM or earlier to ride vans to view the chickens. Bring water, lunch, and snacks. Scopes are needed; we will be glad to share scopes. You can sign up for other tours. Directions are from Sealy: Go south on TX 36 for 1 mile, right on 3013 for 10 miles, then follow signs to refuge HQ. Some of us will stay in motels in Sealy on Saturday night. For trip info, call Mariann Golden 210/415-4661.

April 16, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Eisenhower Park
Meet leaders Lora Reynolds (210/414-0792) and Lora Render (210/687-9722) in the main parking lot. The park is located 1.1 miles outside of Loop 1604 at 19399 NW Military Highway. The park entrance is on the left before Camp Bullis. Bring water and snacks; rocky in places so wear appropriate footwear.

April 23, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Warbler Woods
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) at Don and Susan Schaezler's sanctuary in Cibolo. Take IH-35 north toward Austin. Take Exit 176, Wiederstein Road. Turn right on Wiederstein at the overpass. Turn left at the next road, Old Wiederstein. After you pass Dean Road, the Schaezler property begins on the right. Look for green mailbox, 19349 Old Wiederstein.

April 27, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Love Creek Preserve, Medina, TX
Ryan Smith will lead tour of Nature Conservancy preserve. From Bandera Rd. (Hwy 16), drive through Helotes and Bandera to town of Medina. Or take IH-10 west to Boerne, then take 46 west to Pipe Creek and west on 16 to Medina. Park across from the Apple Store (a restaurant) in Medina, which is on the right, and we will carpool to the preserve. We will walk down a canyon, about a mile of moderate to heavy hiking. Contact Ryan (210/563-3677) to RSVP. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant. For questions, contact Helen Rejzek at hmr78253@gmail.com or 210/679_7437.

April 28, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Avenue A
Meet Tim Katafias (tmkatafias@live.com) in parking area on Red Oak north of Avenue A. Turn north on Red Oak from Mulberry in Brackenridge Park.

2012 Trips

January 5, Thursday, 8:00 AM
McAllister Park
Meet leaders Bill and Marian Collins (545-6064) at the first parking lot on your left about 1/4 mile inside the park. The park is located at 13102 Jones Maltsberger,0.75 mile north of Starcrest, just past the police station.

January 8, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10 E to the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for abrown park sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go 3 miles to the park. Entrance will be on your left. Bring snacks and water; lunch at a local restaurant.

January 14, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginners’ Bird Walk
Meet Alan and Patsy Kuentz (493-2673) at the Judson Nature Trails. From Broadway at the 5900 block, turn west on Ogden Street to the stop sign at Greely St. and the sign to the Nature Trails. Turn left, go one block and turn right on Viesca to the parking lot on the left before the swimming pool.

January 19, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Medina River Natural Area
Meet leader Helen Rejzek (679-7437) in the parking lot of the Medina River Natural Area. From South Loop 410, take the SH-16/Palo Alto exit. Go south on SH-16 for about 4.2 miles to the entrance, which will be on the left just before the Medina River bridge. Bring water and snacks, lunch at a local restaurant. Time permitting, we will bird the Applewhite portion of the park.

January 21, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Haggard (5H) Ranch
Meet Metha Haggard (622-3886) at her ranch in SW Bexar County. Go south on IH 35. About 4 miles south of Loop 1604, take exit 137 (Shepherd Road). Go left over the interstate and take another left onto the northbound access road. Drive 0.5 mile to the gate (#16290) where there is a cattle guard. The code number for the gate is 2020. Please make sure the gate is completely closed before proceeding to the house. Once through the gate, go over a second cattle guard, then turn left at the fork to reach the house. Bring water and lunch, also sturdy walking shoes.

January 22, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Avenue A
Meet leader Tim Katafias (557-9915) at the parking lot on Red Oak. Turn north on Red Oak from Mulberry into Brackenridge Park. From there, we’ll walk to Avenue A. Bring snacks and water.

January 24, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Mud Creek Park
Meet leader Bill Zwartjes (495-5123) in the parking lot of Mud Creek Park, 16675 Jones Maltsberger, 1.2 miles inside Loop 1604. From North Loop 1604 East, take the Bulverde exit and turn south on Bulverde Road. Continue right on Bulverde, then right on Jones Maltsberger. Lunch at a local restaurant.

January 29, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Kreutzberg Natural Area
Meet leaders Lee and Betty Pasquali (408-6818) at the headquarters of the natural area. To reach the natural area, travel west on IH-10 and take the first exit into Boerne. Turn right on TX 46 and go to stop light on Esser Road. Turn left and go north to join 474 by the high school. Go on 474 for 6+ miles. At Kreutzberg Road, turn right and continue 2+ miles to Mark Twain Road. Continue 1 mile to the entrance to the park. Lunch at a local restaurant.

January 31, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Pedernales Falls State Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) at the entrance to Pedernales Falls State Park. From San Antonio, take US 281 north to Johnson City. Take a right (east) on FM 2766 and continue for about 9 miles to the park. Bring water, snacks and lunch. Allow about 90 minutes for driving time.

February 5, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Calaveras Lake
Meet leader Chris Bailey (621-3025) in the large parking lot past the entrance to the lake. We will have access to the primitive area so it is important that you arrive on time! Take I-37 South past the Loop 410 intersection. Take the Highway 181 exit to Floresville, (exit right but loops over). Proceed to Loop 1604. Take 1604 N to Stuart. Turn left on Stuart, go 1 block and turn left into the park. Bring water, snacks, and lunch. Time permitting, we will bird Braunig Lake. Entrance fee is $4.00, which is good for both parks.

February 9, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Warbler Woods
Meet Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) at Don and Susan Schaezler's sanctuary near Cibolo. Take IH-35 N toward Austin. Take Exit 176, Wiederstein Road. Turn right on Wiederstein at the overpass. Turn left at the next road, Old Wiederstein. After you pass Dean Road, the Schaezler property begins on the right. Look for the green mailbox, 19349 Old Wiederstein. Lunch at a local restaurant.

February 11, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

February 11, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Canyon Lake
Meet leader Bob Doe (830-438-8399) at the Valero station at the intersection of US 281 and Farm Road 306 in northern Comal County. During the morning we will look for loons and Greater Scaup on the lake and wintering sparrows in the lakeside brush. In the afternoon, we will bird the trails along the river below the dam. Plan on picnic lunch at Little Jacobs Creek Park.

February 12, Sunday, 8:00 AM
New Braunfels Fields
Meet leader Bob Doe (830-438-8399) at the parking lot of the Clear Springs Cafe in New Braunfels. Since we will be driving the agricultural fields, it will make it easier if we carpool from there, so please be on time. This trip is probably not appropriate for children or new birders as we will be spending a lot of time searching for rare, local, and hard to see birds, which include longspurs, cranes, and sparrows. From San Antonio take IH-35 north to New Braunfels. Exit at State Highway 46. Take SH 46 east (toward Seguin). The Clear Springs Cafe will be on your right. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

February 17, Friday, 8:00 AM
OP Schnabel Park
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz (342-2073) at the main parking lot in the park, 9606 Bandera Road, at the intersection of Braun Road. From the Bandera Road entrance, drive to the first stop sign. Turn left and drive a short distance to the main parking lot near the pavilion.

February 18, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Jackson Nature Park
Meet leader Eva Fromme (830-393-4176) at the sewer ponds near Stockdale. From San Antonio, take US 87 toward Victoria. Go past the highway TX 97 to Floresville and watch for County Road 401 on the right, which has a brown sign for Jackson Nature Park. Turn right and go as far as the sewer ponds on the left and park on the side of the road. We will observe the sewer ponds for ducks and then proceed to the park, which will be on your left after crossing Cibolo Creek. If you reach Stockdale, you have gone too far. There is a $1.00 fee for the park. Lunch at a local restaurant.

February 21, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10 E to the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown park sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go 3 miles to the park. Entrance will be on your left. Bring snacks and water; lunch at a local restaurant.

February 26, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Junction
Meet leaders Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) and Helen Rejzek (679-7437) at the convenience store at Martinez Street. Allow about 2 hours from San Antonio. From San Antonio, take IH 10 west toward Junction. Take the Martinez Street exit and look for the convenience store. From there we will bird some areas around Junction, then continue to S. Llano State Park. Bring snacks, water, and lunch.

March 3-4, Saturday-Sunday
East Texas
Visit hotspots in East Texas with TOS President Steve Gross. Trip is full, call Sandi Wheeler (659-8168) to be added to waiting list if someone cancels.

March 10, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginners’ Bird Walk
Meet Alan and Patsy Kuentz (493-2673) at the Judson Nature Trails. From Broadway at the 5900 block, turn west on Ogden Street to the stop sign at Greely St. and the sign to the Nature Trails. Turn left, go one block and turn right on Viesca to the parking lot on the left before the swimming pool.

March 15, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Boerne Lake and Cibolo Nature Center
Meet leader Bill Zwartjes (495-5123) at the HEB parking lot on TX 46. Take IH-10 W to Boerne, take TX 46 exit. Go right at 46 and the HEB is on left after Little Caesar's Pizza. We will bird the lake first and then the nature center. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

March 17, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Uvalde
Meet leader Bob Rasa in the HEB parking lot in Uvalde. We will visit several hotspots including the fish hatchery, Cook's Slough, and others. Driving time is about 2 hours. Bring water, snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

March 20, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Max Starcke Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the parking lot in front of the water treatment plant at Max Starcke Park. Take IH-10 to Exit 603 to merge into W Kingsbury St./W US 90. Slight right at W Court Street/US 90. Turn right at S Austin/State Loop 5131/TX 123 Business. Turn right on Wave Pool Drive, then left on S. Guadalupe St. Turn right on River Drive. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

March 22, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Friedrich Wilderness Park
Meet leader Helen Rejzek (679-7437) at the parking lot of Friedrich Park, 21395 Milsa Dr. From San Antonio, take IH-10 W to Dominion Drive, exit 552. Drive approximately 1.5 miles and take turnaround under IH-10.Take second right turn, Milsa. Trails are steep and rocky; wear suitable footwear. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

March 24, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Southwest High School
Meet leader Chris Bailey (621-3025) at the main parking lot by the athletic building at Southwest High School, 11914 Dragon Lane. From S. Loop 410 take Old Pearsall Road exit. Turn right and go past the Medina River bridge. Entrance to the high school is on your right. When you enter the gate, drive to the end of the road. There is a large parking lot at the athletic complex. From the parking lot we will walk to the river. Bring water and snacks.

March 25, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the parking lot of the park (12805 Schaefer Road). From San Antonio, take IH-10 E to the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown park sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go 3 miles to the park. Entrance will be on your left. Bring snacks and water; lunch at a local restaurant.

March 29, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Bandera County
Visit Bandera County hotspots with Richard Redmond. To carpool, contact Bill Zwartjes (495-5123). Otherwise we will meet Richard at the Mexican restaurant on Main Street at 8:00. Be prompt! Go west on IH-10 from San Antonio to Boerne, then go left on TX 46 West to Pipe Creek. At Pipe Creek, take Rte 16 right to Bandera. At the light in Bandera, turn right on Main Street and go north to the next light. The restaurant is on the right after the light. Bring snacks and water; lunch at a local restaurant. Please let Bill know if you are coming.

March 31, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Choke Canyon State Park
Meet leader Mike Creese (479-5552) inside the entrance of the park’s Calliham Unit. Go south on I-37 to the Three Rivers exit. In town, turn west on FM 72 and go past South Shore Unit. Continue driving about 10 miles; you will see the sign to the park on your right. Turn right and follow road to the park. Bring lunch and water. There is an entrance fee or use your State Parks pass.

April 3, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Crownridge Canyon, 7222 Luskey Blvd.
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz (342-2073) in the parking lot of the park. From IH-10 W about 1/2 mile past Loop 1604, take Exit 554 for Camp Bullis Road. Two miles down access road, take a left under the interstate onto Camp Bullis Road heading west. Proceed another 1.6 miles to Luskey Blvd. and turn right. At top of curve, make a right into the park. Bring water
and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

April 7, Saturday,  8:00 AM
Medina River Natural Area
Meet leader Helen Rejzek (679-7437) in the parking lot of the park. From S. Loop 410, take SH 16/Palo Alto exit. Go south on SH 16 for about 4.2 miles to the entrance, which is on left before the Medina River bridge. Bring water, snacks; lunch at local restaurant.

April 12, Thursday, 8:00 AM
Live Oak Park
Meet leader Bill Zwartjes (495-5123) in the main parking lot of park. From Loop 410 NE take IH-35 north toward Austin. Take Judson Rd. exit; turn right at first stop sign after you exit IH-35. Judson Rd. becomes Toepperwein Rd. toward Randolph AFB. At the traffic light at Leafy Hollow, turn left. Go to end of street, which turns right and becomes park road. Drive to the end to the main parking lot.

April 14, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

April 17-19, Tuesday-Thursday
Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, Rockport
We will bird the local hotspots. The trip is limited to 12; overnight in motel Tues. and Wed. Contact Karen Moulder (210-824-2547) for information.

April 21, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Love Creek Preserve/Medina, Texas
Tour the Nature Conservancy preserve in Medina with Ryan Smith. Two driving options: From Bandera Road/Hwy 16, drive through Helotes and Bandera to the town of Medina. Or take IH-10 West to Boerne. Take 46 west to Pipe Creek and head west on 16 and continue to Medina. Park in the parking lot across from the Apple Store in Medina, which is on the right. Be prompt! We will carpool to the preserve. On the way, we’ll look for Black-capped Vireos and upper slope and grassland birds. From top of trail, we will walk down to canyon—about a mile of moderate to heavy hiking. Check out www.nature.org to learn about the preserve. Bring snacks and water; lunch at local restaurant. Please contact Helen Rejzek (679-7437) to sign up so we know how many to expect.

April 22, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Maverick/Fromme Ranch
Meet Mary and Bebe Fenstermaker at the gate to their ranch on Boerne Stage Road in NW Bexar County. Exit IH-10 W at Leon Springs. Turn left on Boerne Stage Road, drive 3 miles to stop sign, turn right on Boerne Stage Road. Go 1.4 miles to their gate on the left. The gate will be locked after we assemble, so please be on time. Bring lunch and water.
For info, call Bebe (830-981-4477).

April 25, Wednesday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the parking lot of the park (12805 Schaefer Road). From San Antonio, take IH-10 E to the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown park sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go 3 miles to the park. Entrance will be on your left. Bring snacks and water; lunch at a local restaurant.

April 27, Friday, 8:00 AM
Tobin Park, 100 Ira Lee
Meet leaders Jerry and Karen Moulder (824-2547) in the parking lot of park. From Austin Hwy heading NE of Alamo Heights, exit to the right just before the bridge over Salado Creek. The bridge is about 1/4 mile past Eisenhower Rd traffic light. Before low water crossing, turn left and go under Austin Hwy. Park is on your right. (There will not be a national Birdiest City Contest this year, but we will do our own spring migration count for San Antonio from April 27-29.)

April 28, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Avenue A/San Antonio Botanical Garden
Meet leader Lora Reynolds (414-0792) in the parking lot on Red Oak north of Avenue A in Brackenridge Park. We’ll look for migratory species, then drive to Botanical Garden. Fee at Botanical Garden for nonmembers is $8, or $6 for 65+ older.

April 29, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Warbler Woods, 19349 Old Wiederstein
Meet Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) at Don and Susan Schaezler's sanctuary near Cibolo. Take IH-35 N toward Austin. Take Exit 176, Wiederstein Road. Turn right on Wiederstein at the overpass. Turn left at the next road, Old Wiederstein. After you pass Dean Road, the Schaezler property begins on the right. Look for the green mailbox, 19349 Old Wiederstein. Lunch at a local restaurant.

May 9, Wednesday, 7:30 AM
Landa Park
Meet leader Bill Zwartjes in the big parking lot by the Olympic Pool, close to the mini train depot. From San Antonio take I-35 N to New Braunfels and exit at #187 for State Spur 453 and Seguin Avenue. Turn left (west) under I-35 and continue on S. Seguin Avenue, which becomes State 46. Continue through town and around the Main Plaza onto N.Seguin Avenue. At Landa Park, turn right on Landa Park Drive, go past the Wursthalle and look for the RR parking lot on your right. Lunch will be at a local restaurant. Notify Bill at 495-5123 if you plan to go. Contact Donna Lehr (830-708-1704) with questions.

May 12, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

May 12, Saturday, 8:00 AM
South Llano State Park
Meet leader Rhandy Helton at the park headquarters. From San Antonio, take IH-10 toward Junction. In Junction, take Exit 456 and follow the signs to the park. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant. Contact is Helen Rejzek (679-7437). Please be prompt.

May 13, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Castroville Regional Park
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz in the upper parking lot of the park. Take US 90 west to Castroville. At the end of the Medina River bridge entering Castroville, turn left in front of the Landmark Inn onto Florence Street and follow the signs to the park. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

May 15, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Avenue A/San Antonio Botanical Garden
Meet leader Bill Zwartjes (495-5123) in the parking lot on Red Oak north of Avenue A. After Avenue A, we’ll go to the Botanical Garden. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant. Fee at Botanical Garden for non-members is $8, or $6 for 65+.

May 16, Wednesday, 7:45 AM
Rancho Diana
This field trip will be limited to 12 people; please contact Helen Rejzek (679-7437) to reserve a spot and get further instructions. There is some off-trail hiking involved.

May 19, Saturday, 7:30 AM
Rancho de las Cabras
Meet leader Jason Byrd at the Floresville City Park at 7:30 AM to carpool to Rancho de las Cabras. Since we will be carpooling, please be on time. Take US 181 to Floresville. Turn right on TX 97 about 4 miles to the entrance to the park on the right, just past the new convention center. Bring water and insect repellent; lunch at a local restaurant. Contact Georgina (342-2073) if you plan to go.

May 20, Sunday, 8:00 AM
San Antonio Missions
Meet leaders Andy and Wendy Garcia (268-4612) in the parking lot of Mission San Juan. From Loop 410 in SE San Antonio, take S. Presa Street northwest about 2 miles to Graf Road. Turn left on Graf and proceed past Ashley Road to the mission complex. Will also bird the aqueduct and San Antonio River areas.

May 22, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Warbler Woods, 19349 Old Wiederstein
Meet Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) at Don and Susan Schaezler's sanctuary near Cibolo. Take IH-35 N toward Austin. Take Exit 176, Wiederstein Road. Turn right on Wiederstein at the overpass. Turn left at the next road, Old Wiederstein. After you pass Dean Road, the Schaezler property begins on the right. Look for the green mailbox, 19349 Old Wiederstein.

May 26, Saturday, 8:00 AM
Land Heritage Institute
Meet leaders Patsy and Alan Kuentz (210-493-2673, 612-276-3572 or 612-424-8373), at the convenience store at the intersection of Highway 16 and Loop 1604 West promply at 8:00 AM. From the store, we’ll convoy to the LHI property on Neal Road. The LHI board of directors has suggested a $3 per person donation. To reach the store, follow I-35 S from downtown and take Exit 149 Poteet/Palo Alto Road. Follow the access road for about 1 mile and turn left on to Poteet/Jourdanton Freeway/Highway 422, which turns into Palo Alto Rd./Highway 16 at Loop 410. Continue for about 6 miles past Loop 410 to the store on the NE corner of Highway 16 and Loop 1604.

May 27, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the main parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10E to the FM1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go about 3 miles. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

June 9, Saturday, 7:30 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

June 21, Thursday, 7:30 AM
Aquarena Springs
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler in the main parking lot. From San Antonio take IH-35 North to Exit 206, TX-82 Loop /Aquarena Springs Drive. Merge onto the IH-37 Frontage Road N. Turn left at Aquarena Springs Drive. Go 0.9 mile, Aquarena Springs will be on your right. Bring snacks and water; lunch at a local restaurant.

June 26, Tuesday, 7:30 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the main parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10E to the FM1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go about 3 miles. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

July 8, Sunday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Field Trip Choke Canyon State Park
Meet leader Mike Creese(479-5552) at the entrance parking lot of the Calliham Unit of Choke Canyon State Park. Go south on IH 37 and take the exit to Three Rivers. In town turn west on FM72 and go past the South Shore Unit and continue for approximately 10 miles. The road to the entrance is on the right. Be careful driving through Three Rivers, speed limits are strictly enforced. Bring water, bug spray and lunch. There is a $4 entrance fee or use your state park pass.

July 14, Saturday, 7:30 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

July 22, Sunday, 7:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the main parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10E to the FM1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go about 3 miles. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

July 28, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS field trip Hornsby Bend in Austin
Hornsby Bend is at 2210 S. FM973,Austin,Texas 78725. Join San Antonio Audubon for a morning of shore birding at the Biosolid Management Facility. Go to www.hornsbybend.org for directions and information about the area. Please, the leaders need to know if you plan to attend, contact Sandi Wheeler, (wheels5683@satx.rr.com or 210-632-2812) or Karen Moulder (moulderkf@gmail.com or 824-2547).

August 11, Saturday, 7:30 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

August 17, Friday, 7:00 AM
Medina River Natural Area
Meet leader Helen Rejzek (679-7437) in the main parking lot of the Natural Area. From Loop 410 S, take the Palo Alto/SH 16 exit. Drive 4.2 miles south on SH 16; the park entrance is on the east side (left) just before the bridge. Bring water, bug spray, and snacks. Lunch at local restaurant.

August 21, Tuesday, 7:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (632-2812) in the main parking lot of the park. From San Antonio, take IH-10E to the FM1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for a brown sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go about 3 miles. Bring water and snacks; lunch at a local restaurant.

August 25/26, Saturday/Sunday
Corpus Christi/Port Aransas
This trip will be limited to 12 people. Please contact Karen Moulder, moulderkf@gmail.com (824-2547) to reserve a spot and get further instructions. Shorebirds will be our focus.

September 4, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Warbler Woods
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (210/632-2812) at Don and Susan Schaezler's sanctuary near Cibolo. Take IH-35 toward Austin. Take Exit 176, Wiederstein Road. Turn right on Wiederstein at the overpass. Turn left at the next road, Old Wiederstein. After you pass Dean Road, the Schaezler's property begins on the right. Look for the green mailbox, 19349 Old Wiederstein.

September 8, Saturday, 8:00 AM
SAAS Beginner's Bird Walk
Meet leader Georgina Schwartz() at Judson Nature Trails next to Alamo Heights swimming pool. At 5900 block of Broadway in Alamo Heights, turn west on Ogden. Go to stop sign at Greely Street. Turn left one block, then right on Viesca to small parking lot on left before the swimming pool. Binoculars available, everyone is welcome.

September 9, Sunday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Nature Park
Meet leader Sandi Wheeler (wheels5683@satx.rr.com or 210/632-2812) in the parking lot of the park. From IH-10 East take the FM 1518 exit and go north toward Schertz. Look for brown park sign at Schaefer Road. Turn right and go 3 miles. The park is on left just before the Cibolo Creek crossing. Bring snacks and water. Lunch at local restaurant.

September 18, Tuesday, 8:00 AM
Crescent Bend Photography Field Trip
Meet leaders Ann Mallard and Lee Pasquali at the parking lot for our first photography walk. The pace and priority will be to photograph the birds. The walk will be limited to 8 photographers and 8 non-photographers. RSVP to Ann Mallard at camallard@earthlink.net. See September 9 field trip above for directions to the park.

September 24, Monday, 8:00 AM
Leon Creek Greenway
Meet leader Helen Rejzek (210/679-7437) in the parking lot of the Leon Creek Greenway. From Loop 1604, exit Babcock and drive south about 2 miles to the Greenway at 12160 Babcock Road. Coming from IH-10, exit at DeZevala and drive west about 1.75 miles to the light at Babcock. Turn right on Babcock. The Greenway is about 0.7 on the left. Bring water andsnacks; lunch at local restaurant.