Birding Africa Over the Years – In-Person Talk

Presented by Debbi Paden

Debbi first traveled to Africa in 2014 with two friends from Rogue Fly Fishers, planned by someone who had always wanted to go on a Safari. While her friends nicely suggested that the trip would include all the wildlife of Africa, not just the amazing avian species, they became as captivated by the birds as Debbi was. This was also Debbi’s first experience photographing African birds. Since then, she has visited Africa seven times, primarily in the south half, each adventure seeing different areas and species. Debbi will share the wonders of her trips to Africa with some avian knowledge, to encourage everyone to see the great numbers of animals, and to never forget the birds.

Debbi Paden spent most of her childhood outdoors in the High Sierras, enjoying the wonders of nature, she got interested in birding as a young child. Debbi has been an active member of the Rogue Valley Audubon Society since 1976, serving as a board member, and as a president (1988-1989). She taught elementary school for 30 years, and continued to substitute for 17 years after retirement. She enjoys traveling, birds, photography, and especially combining all three.

Debbi’s other interests include fly fishing, scuba diving, hiking, and gardening. She also spent time motorcycling with her husband in Scotland and Ireland, the French and Spanish Pyrenees, southern France, and Corsica, and the Ring Road of Iceland. She has had many dogs over the years, but as of now she has two golden retrievers which she has labeled the golden demons as they are quite mischievous.

First Wednesday Bird Walk

Join RVAS for our monthly outing to Denman Wildlife Area. Walks begin at 8:30 am and end before noon, and are led by Jim Hostick. The gate will be open from 8:00 – 8:20 am. Participants need to purchase an ODFW Area Parking Permit at the ODFW Office, Sportsman’s Warehouse on Delta Waters and Highway 62 in Medford, or at Bi-Mart. We request that all participants be vaccinated for COVID-19.

Directions to meeting spot: We will meet at the entrance off Agate Rd. between 1/4 and 1/2 mile past the fire station on the left side of the road. Coming out Table Rock Rd., turn right on Antelope Rd. and go to the light on Agate Rd. and turn left. The fire station will be on your left at the corner of Ave. G and Agate Rd. Go 1/4 to /12 mile past the fire station and the gate will be on your left. Coming out on Highway 62 to Antelope Rd., turn left and go to the next light. Turn right and continue to the gate on Agate Rd.