REGISTER FOR POINT REYES BIRDING & NATURE FESTIVAL >
Join guides Emiko Condeso of All Hands Ecology to visit the Ninth Street Rookery in Santa Rosa. This urban setting makes one of the largest, most wonderfully dramatic, and most unexpected heron and egret nesting sites in the North Bay accessible to all. We will spend time observing the nesting behaviors of four species of Ardeids: Great Egret, Snowy Egret, Cattle Egret, and Black-crowned Night Heron, using scopes and educational materials like skeletons, games, and more! We will likely have excellent views of courtship behavior and small downy chicks — a great opportunity for nature photographers, families with young children, and those with accessibility needs. In previous years, we have seen over 300 nests! Don’t let this urban setting fool you; this is a treasured viewing location where we are sure to see birds in action.
Experience Levels/Ages: All levels, Ages 5+
Difficulty/Length: Easy, observation only
Number of Participants: 10
Guide Bio
Emiko Condeso is an ecologist and GIS specialist for All Hands Ecology. She holds a master’s degree in biology/landscape ecology from Sonoma State University and a dual bachelor’s degree in biology and environmental studies from UC Santa Cruz. Emiko’s research interests include understanding how spatial patterns, particularly in human-altered landscapes, influence biological communities. Her graduate work focused on sudden oak death and examined the role of the spatial pattern of host woodland on disease dynamics. At the Cypress Grove Research Center, Emiko manages All Hands’ long-term biological monitoring projects and collaborates with staff and partners in conservation research. She is an active member of the local conservation GIS community.
See all events hosted by the 2026 Point Reyes Birding & Nature Festival >
