Trip Leader: Mary Jo Hayes

I’ve lived in inland San Diego County for most of my life and am native to the area. My interest in birds started at a young age. Growing up, I had bird feeders in my yard and there usually was a bird field guide available. I tried to identify local birds and other wildlife during these years, but never took the hobby seriously. Biological sciences always fascinated me, though, and I eventually followed a career in clinical laboratory science. I rediscovered birding around 2019 and walked with several groups. I learned from and was impressed by the knowledgeable leaders. I eventually joined Palomar Audubon. Currently, I am a conservation co-chair for the society and lead several of the societies’ local bird walks. I also am interested in California native plants and have a habitat garden.