Leaders: Phil & Pat Gordon (pagpegATaol.com)
This area is one of the top birding spots in California and it is classified as a Globally Important Bird Area (IBA). Habitats we visit are quite varied, resulting in opportunities for a myriad of bird species and individuals. The harbor and shorelines have access to the open ocean. We will explore mudflats, beaches, rocky shores, salt marsh, fresh water ponds, Eucalyptus, Monterey Cypress and pine groves, and various coastal shrub and grassy segments as well. Birds expected are returning shorebirds, waterfowl, and raptors. Areas to likely visit include: Doran Beach Regional Park ($); Bodega Dunes State Park beach & entrance trail; "Rail Ponds", freshwater marsh, Spud Pt .and Westside Park, "Owl Canyon", Hole-in-the-Head pool and beach and Bodega Head rocky shoreline and ocean. Bring lunch and prepare for possible cool weather. Restrooms available along the way.
DIRECTIONS: To reach SR-1 from Hayward go north and west via Hwy-880 and Hwy-580, over the Richmond/San Rafael Bridge, then north on US-101 to Petaluma. Take the Washington Street exit to the west and follow signs for Bodega Bay on Bodega Avenue thru Petaluma, continuing on Valley Ford Road which continues as Hwy-1, thru Valley Ford to Bodega Bay. The Tides restaurant is on the left side with a large parking lot. Meet here at the Tides Restaurant parking lot.