Locals can celebrate spring with a free guided tour through the city of Davis wetlands on Saturday, April 2, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Summer migratory birds are returning to the area to breed and nest; as a result, the overall number of bird species present can be high this time of year, a news release said. Many male birds are displaying bright breeding plumage and courtship and territorial behaviors are likely to be seen in the wetlands.

Summer species include Swainson’s hawk, white-faced ibis, black-necked stilt, and tree, cliff and barn swallows.

All those wishing to join the tour should meet a few minutes before 9 a.m. at the gate in front of the Davis Wastewater Treatment Plant, east of the Yolo County Landfill on County Road 28H. Participants should bring their own binoculars, water (there is no potable water on site), and field guide. Docents will have spotting scopes to enhance wildlife viewing.

Most of the tour is by car on firm gravel roads with a couple of optional short walks in the wetlands. A portable toilet is available on the route.

This is a free tour, one of a series of tours offered the first Saturday of each month, year-round. No reservations are required.

For more information, call Michael Herrera at 530-758-1018 before the day of the tour or visit the Yolo Basin Foundation website at www.yolobasin.org.

The Yolo Basin Foundation works in cooperation with the city of Davis to offer the Davis wetlands tours. Yolo Basin is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the appreciation and stewardship of wetlands and wildlife through education and innovative partnerships.