General Tour Information
ENTERING THE UNITED STATES: Non-U.S. citizens will need a valid passport and may need a tourist visa. Consult your nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate for details. Canadian citizens should carry proof of citizenship in the form of a passport or birth certificate.
HEALTH: Although California presents no real hazards to the visiting birdwatcher, there are several factors to be considered. Our pace is slow to moderate throughout, with no lengthy hikes or serious climbs of any sort. Insects are not a major problem although mosquitoes occur very locally. Mammals, reptiles and other creatures do not constitute a hazard (e.g., rattlesnakes are present but very rarely encountered). The California sun can be intense, particularly in the south, on the water, and at high elevations; adequate skin protection is important. Finally, the Pacific is rarely smooth and participants should bring their preferred motion-sickness medication for the pelagic trips.
PACE OF THE TOUR: There are no unusually rigorous aspects to this tour. We do spend a half-day on the ocean.
CLIMATE: California weather in early spring is variable. Temperatures of 85° may occur in the southeast but you must also be prepared for chilly mornings (high 30s F) in the mountains and for coastal fog along the coast, particularly at Morro Bay. Bring multi layers and a waterproof jacket for the boat trips. Rain is possible but not likely, as we are at the tail-end of the rainy season.
ACCOMMODATIONS: We will be staying at standard, comfortable motels during the trip.
TRANSPORTATION: We will be traveling by self-drive 15-passenger van or minivan, depending on the group size.
SMOKING: Smoking is prohibited in the vehicles or when the group is gathered for meals, checklists, etc. If you are sharing a room with a non-smoker, please do not smoke in the room. If you smoke in the field, we ask that you do so well away and downwind from the group, if possible.
GENERAL INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF WINGS TOURS: Please take a moment to read the General Information & Conditions. This section contains important information about how we conduct tours, e.g., what is included in the tour price, refund and cancellation policies, pace of the tours and other information that will help you prepare for the tour.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: A more detailed General Information for Tours to California in Spring will be sent to each registrant on receipt of their booking. Final information with instructions for meeting the group, hotel addresses, etc., will be mailed about three weeks before trip departure. Other news will be communicated as necessary. If you have any questions, please let us know.
Updated: May 2004