Author-illustrator Sophie Wood Brinker will share her new guide, Birds of Santa Cruz
APRIL 14, 2026 —SANTA CRUZ, CA — Explore the stories local birds can tell when Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks (Friends) hosts a free book talk and bird walk with author-illustrator Sophie Wood Brinker on Saturday, May 9, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Natural Bridges State Beach Visitor Center and ParkStore.
Her new guide, Birds of Santa Cruz, is a charming, full-color guide to 25 birds native to Santa Cruz. The book is infused with California coastal soul and the quiet fierceness of love one can only derive from ardent attention. Wood Brinker shares what can be learned not only about the birds but from them. From the collective organizing of the Brown Pelican to the community protection of the California Quail, these birds have stories to tell. Vivid hand-painted portraits accompanied by identification and song notes help everyone get to know their avian neighbors.
Following a book talk and question-and-answer session, Wood Brinker will lead a birding stroll through Natural Bridges. There also will be a book signing and light refreshments. Members of Friends will be able to buy Wood Brinker’s new book (priced at $25) at a $10 discount at the event and receive 15% off in the ParkStore anytime. Attendees may become a member at the event.
Doors open for the book talk at 4 p.m. and the talk starts at 4:30 p.m. The event is free to attend, but RSVPs are encouraged and donations are gratefully accepted. RSVP now via Eventbrite. Parking is $10 and helps Friends support the park.
About Sophie Wood Brinker
Sophie Wood Brinker is a science illustrator who works with paint and pencil to communicate the brilliance and intricacy of the ecosystems that surround us. Her art scales from drawing the texture of butterfly wings to painting 15-foot protest banners. She also works in a small-town library, helping spread library joy and community resources. She grew up in Santa Cruz, California, on unceded territory of the Awaswas-speaking Uypi Tribe, and lives in Bolinas, California, on unceded Coast Miwok territory.
About Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks
Established in 1976, Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks (Friends) is a vital partner with California State Parks, creatively working to ensure our cherished local parks and beaches are thriving and available to all. Friends’ innovative and collaborative community partnership provides support and investment for education, equity and inclusion, conservation, facilities improvements, historic preservation and cultural events. Friends currently operates a robust online ParkStore offering nature- and history-themed merchandise for sale to benefit local parks and beaches. Friends also operates ParkStores at Natural Bridges, New Brighton (seasonal), Santa Cruz Mission, Seacliff and Wilder Ranch. Learn more at www.ThatsMyPark.org or via Facebook, Instagram, X, Bluesky andYouTube.
