Date: 12/15/25 4:56 pm From: Noreen Weeden via groups.io <noreen...> Subject: [SFBirds] SF Oak Tree Bird Study Jan 18-Feb 7, 2026
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SF Oak Bird Study
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Oak woodlands are biodiversity hotspots, providing rich and viable habitat for a wide array of insects and birds. However, in urban environments, oaks are often isolated, and it remains unclear whether they maintain the same ecological functions within cities. Understanding how oaks contribute to urban biodiversity can inform urban forestry practices and planning, helping to maximize their ecological value. This knowledge is particularly urgent as cities grapple with a growing biodiversity and climate crisis.
This project will explore how avian biodiversity varies in the urban landscape between oaks and non-native trees. To do this, we have selected oaks and non-native street trees to be sampled across San Francisco. Using point-count data at designated trees collected with eBird, we will calculate species richness and abundance to provide insight into how different street tree species support avian biodiversity. In sum, this data will be valuable for assessing how native and non-native trees support biodiversity and for informing future tree-planting decisions to enhance ecosystem services (e.g., shade) and ecosystem functions (e.g., biodiversity). To achieve this project, we are seeking volunteers to assist with data collection for our winter season.
*Winter Season Info*
*The winter survey window will be from January 18th, 2026 to February 7th, 2026.* The project and your role remain the same: conducting bird surveys at 1-3 sets of trees (2-6 trees total) on three separate days with at least a single day buffer in between during the study period.
As a reminder, the role involves:
§ Conducting surveys from sunrise to 4 hours post-sunrise.
§ Identifying birds confidently by sight and sound.
§ Recording data and supplemental information in eBird
§ Sending in checklist of observations via email
*If you are interested and available for the Winter season, please email Cesar Estien (* *<cesar...>* *).*
In your reply, please also confirm:
1. The number of tree-pairs you're comfortable sampling (1, 2, or 3).
2. Any spatial constraints you might have (e.g., "I prefer to sample in the Sunset"), or if you would prefer to have the same tree as before. Note: If you have not surveyed your tree both seasons in a row, the tree may not be available depending on who confirms first.
We hope you can join us! If you know of any friends interested, please feel free to forward this email to them.
