During this walk through the Fountain Hills Desert Botanical Garden with Birder Peter Herstein, you will be looking for birds before they roost for the evening. The garden in the late afternoon at this time of year has quite a bit of shade. It is an excellent time for a late afternoon walk, with over 15 different species sighting is a distinct possibility. We will be specifically looking and listening for Lesser Nighthawks and Ash throated Flycatchers. We will be identifying birds both by sight and song. Peter will also demonstrate the use of ebird, Merlin and birdNET apps. Wear shoes or boots with grippy soles. Hiking poles recommended. Bring a bottle of water and snacks. No dogs please.

The SCFH invites you to join Vicky Derksen of Night Sky Tourist and the FH Dark Sky Association at the FH Preserve on this moonless evening to observe the night skies with less moonlight interference. You might see a planet or two, and locate and identify constellations and their stars while Vicky recounts some myths and stories held by ancient cultures. After the hike the Star Dudes will point their telescopes at deep space objects that can't be seen with the naked eye. Bring preregistered children over 8 years, wear comfortable clothing, close-toed shoes, bring water, hiking poles if needed, and a red flashlight to protect everyone's night vision. Be prepared to hike approx. 2 miles. No pets please. Vicky Derksen is the host of the Night Sky Tourist podcast, President of the Fountain Hills Dark Sky Association and serves on the board of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center. You can find her online at nightskytourist.com.