Species of the Month

Dark-Eyed Junco

Dark-eyed Juncos (Junco hyemalis), sometimes called snowbirds, are a common migratory sparrow in Oregon during late-Fall & Winter. Look for them foraging on forest floors or identify them in flight by their dark grey heads and bright white tail feathers. Read these interesting facts about them, and then see if you can come spot them in the Arboretum!

• Dark-eyed Juncos are one of the most common birds in North America, with an estimated population of 630 million.
• When migrating, females move South before males, adult females being first to leave before younger Juncos.
• They are monogamous and usually only have one mate.
• Juncos have over 30% more feathers by weight in winter than they do in summer.
• They forage on the ground in flocks with up to 50 in a group. When startled they fly flush together flashing white outer tail feathers. 
• Juncos can use both feet to "double hop" used for turning over leaves when searching for food.

Photo by Mick Thompson

Lane County Farmers Market

Saturday, December 6th 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Saturday, December 13th 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Connect with us and do some holiday shopping at our booth at the Lane County Farmers Market this December! We'll have merch, books, educational playing cards, vintage posters, and special gift memberships for the holidays!

Can't make the market? Gift memberships can be purchased online or at our on site office. Merch and books are also available for purchase at our office while supplies last.

Upcoming Nature Tours

All guided tours start at the Mount Pisgah Arboretum Education Building. Pre-registration is required. Members and kids under 4 are FREE, Non-Members $5 per person.

Mushroom Folk Family Tour

Sunday, December 7th 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

As we wind down to welcome winter, we will read from "Tales of the Mushroom Folk" by Signe Aspelin, a whimsical story of tiny creatures within the fungal world. Together we will walk Arboretum habitats, search for fungi friends, and learn about their importance in the web of life.



December Bird Tour

Sunday, December 14th 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Join Mieko Aoki and Julia Siporin for another monthly bird outing intended for people with all levels of birding experience. We’ll use vocalizations, habitat, and behavior clues for identification of our year-round residents and fall migrants.

Upcoming Work Parties

Become a steward of the Arboretum by helping us improve and maintain our facilities and habitat during our Work Parties! 

During Work Parties, volunteers help us keep our trails, facilities, and park clean, accessible, and beautiful! No experience is required to volunteer on these days, and we will provide tools, gloves, and a parking pass. 

All work parties meet at the bottom of the parking lot near the shop (just past the bright orange trailer). 

Creek Trail Resurfacing Work Party

Saturday, December 13th 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Join us in resurfacing our creek trails! We will be moving gravel and brushing trail edges.

Blackberry Dig Up Work Party

Saturday, December 20th 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

The best way to slow the spread is to dig 'em out! Come out and join us in digging up blackberry crowns where we have been working to reduce the population.

Get Involved

Want to make a difference in other ways? We are always looking for nature guides, trail stewards, park ambassador volunteers, and many other roles. Let's talk about how you can get involved with the Arboretum.

Learn more about some of the opportunities here.