Saturday, September 6, 2008; 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

This exciting “naturalists excursion by luxury coach,” presented by Friends of the Desert Mountains in support of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, will take place on Saturday, September 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring their binoculars and field guide and join local naturalist and expert ornithologist, Kurt Leuschner, on a birding adventure through the biotic communities of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains. Stops will include various scenic locations along the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway, including Lake Hemet, Hurkey Creek, Idyllwild Nature Center and Lake Fulmor. The trip includes use of a spotting scope and opportunites to view pinyon jay, bald eagle, Scott’s oriole, California thrasher, whiteheaded woodpecker and other species featured in the Palms to Pines Birding and Nature Trail guide. Refeshments, snacks and a light lunch will be provided.

Ticket prices are: $65 for the general public; $50 for Friends of the Desert Mountains members and active volunteers. All proceeds will go to fund additional volunteersupported National Monument programs. Call 760-862-9984 between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. for more information or to reserve seating.