The Quality of the air we breathe…
Enjoy galaxy gazing by night and birds play by day.
July Update
The Lake Tahoe Basin is home to over 320 documented bird species that either live in, travel to, or pass through the region. Because of the elevation gradient and diverse habitats—ranging from lake shores to mountain peaks—Tahoe acts as a major hub for migrating and resident birds. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Despite this high number, only about 20% of these species are year-round residents. The rest are seasonal summer breeders or passage migrants stopping over during spring and fall. [1, 2]
Common Year-Round Residents
Common Waterfowl & Birds of Prey
Seasonal Migrants
Depending on the time of year, you can spot transient species like the Western Tanager (bright red and yellow), various warblers, and occasionally even rare seabirds that end up in the basin. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Despite this high number, only about 20% of these species are year-round residents. The rest are seasonal summer breeders or passage migrants stopping over during spring and fall. [1, 2]
Common Year-Round Residents
- Mountain Chickadee: The most common bird in the basin, known for its black cap and "cheeseburger" whistle.
- Steller’s Jay: A vibrant blue bird frequently seen in wooded areas near human activity.
- Dark-eyed Junco: One of the most abundant and easily recognized small birds in the basin.
- Woodpeckers: Look for Hairy Woodpeckers, White-headed Woodpeckers, and Red-breasted Sapsuckers in local pine forests. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Common Waterfowl & Birds of Prey
- Canada Goose & Mallards: Frequently spotted paddling along the lakeshore and in local marshes.
- Osprey & Bald Eagles: Majestic predators that can be seen diving for fish or perched around the lake. [1, 2, 3]
Seasonal Migrants
Depending on the time of year, you can spot transient species like the Western Tanager (bright red and yellow), various warblers, and occasionally even rare seabirds that end up in the basin. [1, 2, 3, 4]
NABA Butterfly Count
Calling all Butterfly Enthusiasts!
The North American Butterfly Association (NABA) Butterfly Count Program is a long-term citizen-scientist project, involving thousands of volunteers throughout North America.
Join us July 15th as we explore a 15-mile diameter count circle in South Lake Tahoe and conduct a one-day census of all butterflies sighted within that circle! Knowledgable participants will be assigned diverse sections of the circle, but others will simply focus on learning the basics and enjoying these important animals. Beginners, photographers, and butterfly enthusiasts of all ages are welcome!
For more information, contact Will at [email protected] or by phone at 775.298.0067.
The North American Butterfly Association (NABA) Butterfly Count Program is a long-term citizen-scientist project, involving thousands of volunteers throughout North America.
Join us July 15th as we explore a 15-mile diameter count circle in South Lake Tahoe and conduct a one-day census of all butterflies sighted within that circle! Knowledgable participants will be assigned diverse sections of the circle, but others will simply focus on learning the basics and enjoying these important animals. Beginners, photographers, and butterfly enthusiasts of all ages are welcome!
For more information, contact Will at [email protected] or by phone at 775.298.0067.
Summer Nature Camps
Summer camp season is here! We have already completed two camps, encouraged five local kids to jump in Lake Tahoe for their very first time, and still have 14 camps to go! Scholarships are available for most of the camps listed. Most of our camps are full at this time; listed below are a few camps that have a few spaces each. Be sure to register your child today!
South Lake Tahoe Explorers Camp – Ages 9-12
Experience Tahoe by hiking the many trails, kayaking on beautiful Lake Tahoe, and more!
Date: July 16-20 – only 3 spots left
Animal Kingdom Camp – Ages 8-10
Campers will learn about Tahoe’s animals of all shapes and sizes and have WILD time exploring in nature.
Date: South Lake Tahoe Camp (July 30 – August 2)
Date: North Lake Tahoe Camp (August 6-9)
Northstar Insect Adventures – Ages 4-12
Go up on the mountain and learn about the different bugs and insects throughout our mountain, or capture the moment as they jump to the sky on our bungee trampoline.
Dates: July 5, 6 July and August 8, 9.
For more information about these nature camps, please click here.
South Lake Tahoe Explorers Camp – Ages 9-12
Experience Tahoe by hiking the many trails, kayaking on beautiful Lake Tahoe, and more!
Date: July 16-20 – only 3 spots left
Animal Kingdom Camp – Ages 8-10
Campers will learn about Tahoe’s animals of all shapes and sizes and have WILD time exploring in nature.
Date: South Lake Tahoe Camp (July 30 – August 2)
Date: North Lake Tahoe Camp (August 6-9)
Northstar Insect Adventures – Ages 4-12
Go up on the mountain and learn about the different bugs and insects throughout our mountain, or capture the moment as they jump to the sky on our bungee trampoline.
Dates: July 5, 6 July and August 8, 9.
For more information about these nature camps, please click here.
Stay cool out there, enjoy the long days, and be sure to connect with nature over the busy Independence Day week!
Birding in Tahoe
Get to know the local sky travelers with Kirk Hardie at: Red Tail Adventures redtailadventures.com
Kirk 775 298-0065
While you have to be an early bird to see them, the Village Green in Incline,
Mt Rose Meadow (Hwy 431), Spooner Lake (Hwy 28) and Tailor Creek (South Shore) are favorite bird watching places. Or join a guided hike with one of our local experts and learn while you view.
Kirk 775 298-0065
While you have to be an early bird to see them, the Village Green in Incline,
Mt Rose Meadow (Hwy 431), Spooner Lake (Hwy 28) and Tailor Creek (South Shore) are favorite bird watching places. Or join a guided hike with one of our local experts and learn while you view.
