Friends of Oaks Bottom Nature Walk

Friends of Oaks Bottom has scheduled another guided nature walk for Saturday, May 16th, 2026, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. This time, we’ll be accompanied by the world’s expert on bushtits, Dr. Sarah Sloane, who will show us some of their nests (the chicks should be close to fledging) and explain their complex social system, including their cooperative breeding behavior. Dr. Sloane has been studying bushtit behavior for 40 years, the last 11 years at Oaks Bottom.

The walk will begin this time at the north parking lot on Milwaukie Avenue, and we’ll be taking the paved path down the bluff. How much walking we do will depend on Dr. Sloane’s itinerary, but we will also be pointing out other creatures and explaining some of the natural history of the wildlife refuge.

There are no restrooms along the route, and there is a gradual descent and ascent of about 60 feet to the Bottom. Please come appropriately dressed for the weather on the day. If you have binoculars, make sure you bring them!

Interested youngsters are welcome, but please leave your pet at home. Also, the pace is slow and will not meet the requirements of your daily constitutional!

The nature walks are free, but donations are gratefully accepted. There is no need to sign up for this event. Just show up at the north parking lot at 9:00 a.m. on the 16th May. If you arrive late, head down the paved path to try and catch up with us!

See you there!
Friends of Oaks Bottom