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2013 Field Trips and Water Adventures

FULL-DAY FIELD TRIPS

CONDOR VIEWING IN BIG SUR
Date  Friday, Sept. 13, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  Sunday, Sept. 15, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Description This full-day trip starts with birding at one or two stops en route to Andrew Molera State Park in scenic Big Sur. Depending on the time and what’s been reported in the park, birding may continue at Andrew Molera. At Andrew Molera, you’ll also be introduced to Ventana Wildlife Society’s Discovery Center, which offers visitors an interpretive look at area wildlife, including California Condors, marine life, and songbirds. Afterward, you’ll spend time looking for condors along Highway 1. Ventana field biologists will lead you to: condor hotspots using radio telemetry equipment, a couple of different locations for a short bird walk, and a great location to enjoy a delicious lunch box, all in one of the country’s pristine locations−Big Sur.

Trip fees support Ventana Wildlife Society’s continued monitoring of California Condors along California’s Central Coast, raising environmental awareness through education programs, ongoing active research, and monitoring programs. VWS’ mission is to conserve native wildlife and their habitats.

Trip ends about 3 p.m. at the VWS Discovery Center (in Big Sur).

Cost: $120, Lunch included
Trip Leaders: Kathy Kuyper (Friday), Bill Brown (Sunday)
Transportation: Escort caravan of 50 miles departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza at 6 a.m. Andrew Molera State Park is approximately 50 miles from Watsonville. For those not traveling in the caravan, meet at 9:45 a.m. at the Ventana Discovery Center/Andrew Molera State Park.
Activity: Moderate


SAN FELIPE LAKE/LLAGAS CREEK
Date  Friday, Sept. 13, 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Description Explore the upper reaches of the Pajaro River watershed on this rare opportunity to bird the privately held wetlands surrounding San Felipe Lake in northernmost San Benito County. While it is still early for wintering waterfowl, a good mix of raptors, rails, songbirds, and waterfowl summering over, as well as a large, resident population of American White Pelicans are good bets. This 2,300−acre ranch is the location of many first county records. Fall records have included Tropical and Eastern Kingbird. Loggerhead Shrikes spin away off fences, Prairie Falcon is regular, and a resident healthy colony of Burrowing Owls may make an appearance. The property is home to a robust deer herd, and coyotes are also frequently seen.
Nearby, we will explore Llagas Creek, a tributary to the Pajaro River. A restored native plant corridor borders this creek, which is managed by the Santa Clara County Water District. Paralleling the city of Gilroy’s wastewater treatment plant, it consistently offers surprises in any season. Again, access at this location is restricted.
Participants should pack lunches and drinks for this nearly all-day trip. You will need to carpool, as parking is limited.
Cost: $25
Trip Leaders: Mark Paxton
Transportation: Caravan/Carpool 50 miles from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Limited


PINNACLES NATIONAL Park
Date  Sunday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Description Join us for a visit to America’s newest national park! Pinnacles provides a chance to look for specialties of the California interior landscape, including a chance at Yellow-billed Magpie, Canyon Wren, Lawrence’s Goldfinch, Greater Roadrunner, Loggerhead Shrike, and resident Prairie Falcons. Other than Big Sur, Pinnacles offers the next best chance for seeing a California Condor.
Cost: $25
Trip Leaders: David Ekdahl (Monterey Bay Birding Festival Trip Leader) and a Pinnacles National Park Ranger
Transportation: Caravan/Carpool 60 miles to San Benito County from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate


CALIFORNIA SPECIALTIES
Date Thursday, Sept. 12, 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
   Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Description This trip focuses on seeing birds unique to California and the Western United States, such as Yellow−billed Magpie, California Thrasher, Wrentit, Nuttall’s Woodpecker, Snowy Plover, California Towhee, Lawrence’s Goldfinch, Clark’s Grebe, White-tailed Kite, etc. Ranging from Pacific beaches to the foothills to the Salinas Valley, this fast−paced trip will help maximize your list of western birds. “Perfect for the out−of−state birder, but fun for anyone.” Limited to 15. Make sure you have a full tank of gas. Participants should bring plenty of water to drink, lunches, and sunscreen for this nearly all−day trip.
Cost: $25
Trip Leaders: Kumaran Arul
Transportation: Caravan from Watsonville Civic Plaza.
Activity: Moderate


BEACHES of SAN MATEO COUNTY
Date  Sunday, Sept 15, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Description This trip explores the sequence of State Beaches along the San Mateo coast: Pigeon Point, Bean Hollow, Pescadero, Pomponio, and San Gregorio. Rocky shorebirds, pelagic species, migrating sparrows and warblers, and an unmatched panorama of scenic vistas await participants. This full−day trip moves northward along the coast, leaving participants in position to travel easily to San Francisco, the East Bay, the airports, and the peninsula, and includes a stop for lunch (not included in trip fee) at the famous Duarte’s in Pescadero. Make sure you have a full tank of gas.
Cost: $25
Trip Leaders: Jennifer Rycenga
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza.
Activity: Moderate


PALO CORONA
Date  Sunday, Sept 14, 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Description Description Located on a historic ranch near the mouth of the Carmel River, Palo Corona is the largest unit in the Monterey Peninsula Regional Parks District. When it was acquired in 2004, it formed the last critical link in a network of public lands that stretches from the Carmel River to the Hearst Ranch in San Luis Obispo County−an uninterrupted expanse of habit stretching for 70 miles. The park contains rare coastal prairie, live oak forests, and extensive grasslands that together contain more than 500 plant species. Birdlife is diverse and abundant. A bird list is still in development, but marquis species already documented in the park include California Condor, Peregrine Falcon, and Spotted Owl. What really distinguishes Palo Corona is the diversity of birdlife found in the varying habitats. In mid−September, fall migration activity promised a few surprises. This new addition to the Monterey Bay Birding Festival menu promises to open the door to a spectacular landscape overlooking Carmel Bay. Participants should bring plenty of water to drink, lunches, and sunscreen for this nearly all−day trip. Sign up early−this trip is limited to 11 participants
Cost: $25
Trip Leaders: Mark Paxton
Transportation: Caravan/carpool approximately 35 miles from Watsonville Civic Plaza to Carmel River Bridge.
Activity: Moderate


HALF-DAY FIELD TRIPS


KIRBY PARK & ELKHORN SLOUGH RESERVE (Interior)
Date Thursday, Sept. 12, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
   Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, in the heart of Elkhorn Slough, is one of the premier bird watching sites in the western United States. Birding from the Reserve offers an excellent sampling of some of the many habitats and over 340 species that visit or take refuge throughout this watershed. Elkhorn Slough’s importance is part of the great fall and spring migrations has led the American Birding Conservancy to declare it a "globally important" area.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: TBA
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate


ELKHORN SLOUGH/MOSS LANDING (Coastal)
Date  Friday, Sept. 13, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
   Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description This half-day trip will find us scouring locations such as the mudflats of Moss Landing, visiting the famous Moon Glow Dairy, or checking the fresh−water pond of Zmudowski State Beach for the many migrating and wintering shorebirds, gulls, and waterfowl of the region. Peregrine Falcons and Merlin are often attracted to the large flocks of shorebirds, and California Sea Otters are usually in the area. Come see why Elkhorn Slough has long been a target destination for birders from around the world. Exact itinerary will be determined based on local conditions.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders:Rusty Scalf
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza.
Activity: Moderate


RAPTORS in FLIGHT
Date  Friday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Description This trip will move from Watsonville to Coyote Valley (central Santa Clara County) in search of migratory and resident raptors. Coyote Valley has been home to a significant population of White-tailed Kites and several Ferruginous Hawks. Prairie Falcon, Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle are all quite possible. Field discussions will focus on the useful field marks for identifying raptors in flight. Multiple habitats will be visited as we work on skill−building and identifying between 8 and 12 raptor species. Please do not sign up for this trip if you are not willing to carpool.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders:Bob Powers
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza.
Activity: Moderate


WATSONVILLE SLOUGHS
Date  Friday, Sept. 13, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  Sunday, Sept. 15, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Come see where the mega−rarity, the Common Cuckoo, took refuge for several days in September 2012! The sloughs of Harkins, East and West Struve, Hanson, Gallighan, and Watsonville comprise the heart of the Watsonville Sloughs system. A variety of shorebirds, raptors, gulls, ducks, sparrows, and songbirds are present at the slough’s varied habitats and their associated uplands. Learn the local access sites for finding birds in Watsonville’s front yard.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Rusty Scalf (Friday), Wally and Lois Goldfrank (Saturday), Steve Gerow (Sunday)
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza.
Activity: Moderate, Limited


PAJARO DUNES/SUNSET BEACH
Date Thursday, Sept. 12, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Shorebirds, songbirds, and waterfowl are all likely as we visit the varied habitats of SunsetBeach and Pajaro Dunes. Snowy Plovers nest on the dunes themselves, and the Pajaro River Mouth has long been one of the premier locations for rare shorebirds, gulls and terns. Stands of Monterey Cypress and willow patches provide habitat for a variety of passerines. This trip highlights some of the richest birding areas of the entire Pajaro Valley.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Rusty Scalf (Thursday), TBA (Saturday)
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate


PINTOLAKE AND LOCAL HOTSPOTS
Date Thursday, Sept. 12, 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
   Sunday, Sept. 15, 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Pinto Lake's many trails and wetlands harbor the Red−shouldered and Red−tailed Hawk, White−tailed Kite, California Thrasher, woodpeckers, ducks, and songbirds. We'll visit Pinto Lake City Park for a birder's quick−fix view of the lake, and then wander the trails of Pinto Lake County Park for a more intensive birding experience. Recommended for both beginners and experienced birders.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Bob and Bernadette Ramer (Thursday), Bob Ramer (Sunday)
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza.
Activity: Moderate


SALINAS RIVERMOUTH
Date  Friday, Sept. 13, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  Sunday, Sept. 15, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description The Salinas Rivermouth offers an excellent opportunity to find a vagrant shorebird, observe several species of terns, study Snowy Plovers, catch a Northern Harrier or a Peregrine Falcon on the wing, or just enjoy a walk to the Pacific Ocean. Fall is the premier time of the year to visit this locale.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Scott Smithson (Friday), TBA (Sunday)
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza.
Activity: Moderate


VAGRANT CHASING AT THE CARMEL RIVERMOUTH
Date Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
   Sunday, Sept. 15, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description September and fall migration is the time birders head to hot spots such as the Carmel Rivermouth to search for vagrants and rarities not found in the area at any other time of the year. The Carmel Rivermouth’s riparian corridor is a fine example of coastal MontereyBay birding. In addition to the passerines along the river, the mouth of the river itself often provides excellent shorebird habitat. Rubber boots or hip waders are advised to enable stream crossings.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Bill Hill (Saturday), TBA (Sunday)
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza, caravan to Carmel
Activity: Moderate


NATURAL BRIDGES STATE BEACH
Date Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Natural Bridges is another locations that combines the appeal of vagrant warblers with easy access to the beach and ocean. Three species of cormorants are almost automatic; rocky shorebirds are expected, and a fine variety of warblers, sparrows, and other songbirds are likely along the riparian corridor trail.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Steve Gerow
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate


RANCHO DEL OSO
Date Friday, Sept. 13, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Date Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Birding at this beautiful and historic locale brings together birds from a variety of habitats in a limited area. Turning from the birds of the ocean, beach, creek mouth and marsh, one can search amid riparian, Monterey pine, mixed evergreen, and coast redwood forests. Along with local favorites, such as Wrentit, Pygmy Nuthatch, Purple Finch, House Wren, Hermit Warbler, Northern Pygmy-Owl, Marbled Murrelet, and various woodpeckers, this is a good place to encounter raptors and a chance for rare migrants and vagrants. Plan for a few miles of walking on mostly gentle slopes.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Jennifer Rycenga
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate


NEW BRIGHTON STATE BEACH
Date Friday, Sept. 13, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Date Sunday, Sept. 15, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description New Brighton State Beach includes patches of willows, oaks, and a fine Monterey Pine forest, all of which are attractive to both migrating and wintering birds. Townsend’s Warblers, Pygmy Nuthatches, Downy & Hairy Woodpeckers, and Brown Creepers are all likely to be seen. The adjacent waters of Monterey Bay are a good place to view Caspian, Elegant, and Forster’s Terns, and sometimes even a Parasitic Jaeger!
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Michelle Scott (Friday), TBA (Sunday)
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate, Limited


POINT PINOS and the MONTEREY PENINSULA
Date  Friday, Sept. 13, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  Saturday, Sept. 14, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  Sunday, Sept. 15, 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Besides being one of the premier birding destinations of the area, Point Pinos has the added bonus of being one of the most scenic destinations of the region. The crashing waves and rocks are a great place for Black Turnstones, Black Oystercatchers, and other rocky shorebirds, Coastal cypress trees often are excellent spots for migrant songbirds, and even true seabirds can sometimes be seen from some of the westernmost points of land adjacent to Monterey Bay.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: TBA (Friday and Saturday), Tim Amaral (Sunday)
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate


OWLS of ROBINSON CANYON
Date Friday, Sept. 13, 8:45 p.m. to After Midnight
Date Saturday, Sept. 14, :45 p.m. to After Midnight
Description Robinson Canyon is one of California’s most productive owling sites and is sure to be one of our first trips to sell out. Western Screech, Great Horned, Barn and Northern Saw-White Owls are all likely, and Northern Pygmy and the endangered Spotted Owl are possible. This field trip, limited to 10, is a must if you’re looking for owls. Bring a flashlight if possible. Please be aware that most owls will be heard and not seen. This trip is not recommended for those with an early field trip the following morning and especially not for those taking a pelagic trip!
Cost: $25
Trip Leaders: Steve Rovell
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity:Limited


BEGINNING BIRDING
Date   Friday, Sept. 13, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  Saturday, Sept. 14, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
   Saturday, Sept. 14, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
   Sunday, Sept. 15, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Unsure about how to find birds in your binoculars? Don’t know a Great Blue Heron from a Mourning Dove? Or, are you just looking for some tips about how to improve your identification skills? Come join us for an introductory bird walk emphasizing the ABCs of identifying and observing birds in the wild.
Cost: $15
Trip Leaders: Rusty Scalf (Friday), Wally and Lois Goldfrank (Saturday), TBA (Sunday)
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate


FIELD SKETCHING
Date   Friday, Sept. 14, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Description Description This workshop is designed to enhance your bird watching experience. The morning session includes hands-on, step-by-step instruction, using various local bird specimens to study shape, proportion, color, and texture. The afternoon session resumes with observation and sketching the wetlands. Bring a sketchpad, #2 soft pencil, colored pencils, sharpener, and eraser. For the afternoon at the wetlands, bring a folding chair, sun hat, and remember the binos!
Cost: $30
Trip Leaders: Carol Bennett
Transportation: Departs from Watsonville Civic Plaza
Activity: Moderate



WATER ADVENTURES


SHEARWATER JOURNEYS PELAGIC TRIPS
Date Thursday, Sept. 12, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
   Friday, Sept. 13, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  Saturday, Sept. 14, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
   Sunday, Sept. 15, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Description Monterey Bay’s incredible submarine canyon hosts a vast variety of seabirds and marine mammals and birdlife within just a few miles of shore. Debi Shearwater has been conducting these trips for 38 years, and her tours attract sea birders from all over the globe. We can expect to see whales and dolphins in addition to Sooty, Pink-footed, and Buller’s Shearwaters, Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Cassin’s and Rhinoceros Auklets, Pomarine and Parasitic Jaegers, and maybe a South Polar Skua. Black-footed Albatross, Black and Ashy Storm Petrels, Sabine’s Gull, and Arctic Tern highlight just a partial list of our possibilities. Reserve early to avoid disappointment. Make reservations through Shearwater Journeys at www.shearwaterjourneys.com
Transportation: Go directly to Chris’ Fishing Shop on Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey. Do not meet at Watsonville Civic Plaza. Allow 1 hour travel time from Watsonville.
Monterey Trips: Meet Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey. Parking is available in the large lot that connects Fisherman’s Wharf and Commercial Wharf #2. Be sure to get a parking voucher at Chris’ Fishing Shop. Parking is $5 with Shearwater Journeys Pelagic Trip. Be at Chris’ Fishing Shop on Fishermans’ Wharf at 7 a.m. The boat depart at 7:30 a.m. and will not wait for latecomers, who will forfeit their fees. The boat will return about 3 p.m. Send reservations, including first and second choice dates, in case first choice is sold out to: Debi Shearwater, POB 190, Hollister, CA 95024. Please note: Shearwater Journeys office will be closed from June 3 through July 11, although reservations can still be sent in during that period. You will receive a return confirmation letter by mail after July 11.

Please note: The dock is unable to accommodate wheelchairs. This trip is unsuitable for pregnant women. Dress in layers due to the changing weather conditions. Bring your own lunch and beverages. Food is not available for purchase on the boat.

Cost: $154, possible price adjustment, payable only in cash at the dock, $5-$15.
Trip Leaders:TBA
Transportation: Departs from Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey



ELKHORN SLOUGH SAFARI
Date     Thursday, Sept. 12, 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  Friday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  Saturday, Sept. 14, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
   Sunday, Sept. 15, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Description Elkhorn Slough Safari is a birding adventure aboard an open 27-foot pontoon boat, allowing for exploration of the slough from a perspective usually experienced only by birds and sea otters. This tour will provide you with a unique opportunity to observe these species in their native habitats, close-up and personal. Shorebirds, raptors, grebes, and both harbor seals and sea otters are highlighted. Limited to 10 per day.
Cost: $40
Trip Leaders: Captain Yohn Gideon and crew
Transportation: Go directly to Elkhorn Slough Safari in Moss Landing. Do not meet at Watsonville Civic Plaza. Allow 30 minutes travel time from Watsonville.
For directions, www.elkhornsloughsafari.com


KAYAK CONNECTION - ELKHORN SLOUGH
Date Friday, Sept. 14, 9 a.m. to Noon
Description Here’s your chance to take your own birding tour of Elkhorn Slough and enjoy kayaking adventure—courtesy of Kayak Connection in Moss Landing. Shorebirds, sea otters, grebes, pelicans, and all the rarities of fall migration are possible on this guided trip. Some of the most intriguing spots of the slough are accessible ONLY by kayak. Beginning kayakers are welcome and encouraged to sign up. Limited to 10 people in a double kayak per day.
Cost: $55
Trip Leaders: Kayak Connection to provide map of Elkhorn Slough.
Transportation:Go directly to Kayak Connection in Moss Landing. Do not meet at Watsonville Civic Plaza. Allow 30 minutes travel time from Watsonville. For directions,
www.kayakconnection.com.