Events Calendar
Leaders: Bob Toleno & Juli Chamberlin; bobANtoleno.com
Frank's Dump is probably the best high-tide roost for shorebirds in the East Bay. An afternoon high tide means the sun will be at our backs, giving prime viewing conditions. Many of the shorebirds will be molting into their beautiful breeding plumage by late March. We'll see thousands of Western Sandpipers and Dunlin, hundreds of larger shorebirds, some gulls and ducks, and probably even a few Red Knots. We might even catch a glimpse of the two Pacific Golden-Plovers that have wintered here the past few years. If we have time, we'll also visit the adjacent Oro Loma marsh, where many larger shorebirds, like Marbled Godwits and Willets, are more plentiful. Scopes are desirable. Check the weather; rain cancels this trip. Dress warmly, as the afternoon wind from the bay can be chilly.
Directions: From Highway 880, take the Winton Ave exit west. Follow Winton Ave all the way to the end. Park in the dirt parking lot outside of the gate, near the park headquarters.