Mono Basin Bird Chautauqua
June 20-22, 2008

The Mono Basin is home to millions of birds representing over 300 species. Most are migratory, and over 100 species nest here as well. The Mono Basin watershed has a variety of habitats, and each supports its own collection of bird species—as well as birds commonly seen throughout the Basin. The most prominent habitat is Mono Lake, a salty, alkaline inland sea home to brine shrimp, alkali flies, and the millions of birds that depend on them. Flowing down from the Sierra Nevada escarpment, freshwater streams create a different habitat where aspens, willows, and cottonwoods grow. And in other locations, one finds Mono Basin habitats such as Jeffrey Pine forests, Pinyon Pine woodlands, vast sagebrush steppe, and freshwater lakes.

Twenty-five years ago California Audubon and Mono Lake Committee filed suit against Los Angeles Department of Water and Power on behalf of the Public Trust value of Mono Lake. Today Mono’s creeks are full of water, the lake is near its highest point in almost 30 years, and the City of Los Angeles has one of the lowest per capita water use levels in the State. Birds were a rallying point for Mono’s protection, and with the rising lake come new challenges and responsibilities. You can participate in some of the birding and bird conservation opportunities that we have this year.

Last Updated January 29, 2007 Copyright © 1996-2007, Mono Lake Committee. (how to contact us)