Thank god the laptop is working again lol.
Today visited the Forestry Headquarters and obtained a year long Adventure Pass!
Elated, headed straight upward on Santa Anita Ave., to the Canyon lol.
Well, most of the montane signature birds were there, Acorn, Steller's Jays, Oregon Juncos, and even Robins. That's about it I guess. Oh some California Towhees as well. Was especially delighted to find so many Steller's.
Oh a big shorebird flew into the forest and perched on a tree, Sandhill Crane or Great Heron!
Thursday, April 30, 2015
04/26 Pics of the day; Ojai Meadows Preserve
Hooded Oriole
White Crowned Sparrow in April?!
Western Bluebird?
Turkey Vultures!
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Birding book purchases
By God it's hot today. I'm considering buying an Adventure Pass, but if it's this hot already..
Anyway, visited Eaton Canyon Center and voila, some used books were selling at these ludicrous prices;
http://www.amazon.com/Peterson-Field-Guide-Advanced-Birding/dp/039597500X/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1430350416&sr=8-2&keywords=advanced+birding for $1
http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Birder-Guide-Better-Birding/dp/0395468078/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1430350510&sr=8-1&keywords=the+complete+birder+connor for $1.50
http://www.amazon.com/Birds-Yosemite-Slope-David-Gaines/dp/0932347053/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1430350546&sr=1-1&keywords=birds+of+yosemite for $1
Yeah I have an ambition to explore Yosemite for...birds lol.
Was craving for more in depth bird books (rather than field guides, which by now I have many, although mainly older versions lol), so what a timely surprise :)
Anyway, visited Eaton Canyon Center and voila, some used books were selling at these ludicrous prices;
http://www.amazon.com/Peterson-Field-Guide-Advanced-Birding/dp/039597500X/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1430350416&sr=8-2&keywords=advanced+birding for $1
http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Birder-Guide-Better-Birding/dp/0395468078/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1430350510&sr=8-1&keywords=the+complete+birder+connor for $1.50
http://www.amazon.com/Birds-Yosemite-Slope-David-Gaines/dp/0932347053/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1430350546&sr=1-1&keywords=birds+of+yosemite for $1
Yeah I have an ambition to explore Yosemite for...birds lol.
Was craving for more in depth bird books (rather than field guides, which by now I have many, although mainly older versions lol), so what a timely surprise :)
Kern County Bird Trip by Sea and Sage Audubon
Since I'm visiting Antelope Valley this Sunday, this is also tempting;
http://www.seaandsageaudubon.org/FieldTrips/Trips/SouthernSierraTrip.html
http://www.seaandsageaudubon.org/FieldTrips/Trips/SouthernSierraTrip.html
| Southern Sierra Trip |
Trip Leaders: John Schmitt and Bob Barnes
|
Fri-Mon, June 26-29, 2015
|
| The birding locations will be selected according to current birding conditions and the wishes of the participants. |
| This is a trip designed for active people who want to see and hear A LOT of birds in varied habitats, who are willing to get up early to take in the “Dawn Chorus” (one of the trip highlights) and who will enjoy being out in the field most of the day birding. It will involve a fair amount of walking and is not a leisure trip. Trip size is limited to 12 people. |
| A WIDE VARIETY OF HABITATS will be covered: chaparral, cliffs & rocky hillsides, deciduous & live oak woodland, fir forest, Fremont cottonwood & red willow riparian forest, grasslands & pastures, Joshua tree woodland, mixed conifer forest, Mojave desert scrub, mountain meadows, pinyon/juniper woodland, pond & marsh, reservoir (Lake Isabella), residential. |
| ELEVATION RANGE: 2500' (community of Lake Isabella) to 9400' (Bald Mountain) |
| POSSIBLE BIRD SPECIES: Mountain Quail, Sooty Grouse, Western Grebe, Clark's Grebe, American White-Pelican, Golden Eagle, Northern Goshawk, White-winged Dove, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Greater Roadrunner, nine owl species including Flammulated Owl, Western Screech-Owl, Northern Pygmy Owl, Spotted Owl, & Northern Saw-whet Owl, Lesser Nighthawk, Common Nighthawk, Common Poorwill, Black Swift, Costa's Hummingbird, Calliope Hummingbird, ten woodpecker species including Pileated Woodpecker, seventeen flycatcher species including Vermilion Flycatcher & Brown-crested Flycatcher, six vireo species including Plumbeous Vireo & Red-eyed Vireo, six corvid species including Pinyon Jay & Clark's Nutcracker, Verdin, six wren species including Pacific Wren, American Dipper, five thrush species including Mountain Bluebird & Townsend's Solitaire, Le Conte's Thrasher, ten warbler species including Hermit Warbler, eighteen sparrow species including Green-tailed Towhee, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Black-chinned Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, & "Thick-billed" Fox Sparrow, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting, ten blackbird & oriole species including Tricolored Blackbird & Scott's Oriole, eight finch species including Cassin's Finch, Red Crossbill, Lawrence's Goldfinch, & Evening Grosbeak. Except for American White-Pelican, all species have nested in the Kern River Valley/Southern Sierra Nevada area. |
| The preceding list represents those bird species which have been seen during some to several past late June field trips. We will visit the habitats where each has been found. Several birds on the list will no doubt be seen during this trip, too. Several will likely be missed as well. Regardless, the best set of expectations to have when participating in this trip is to enjoy birding a diverse and bird-rich nesting season region of California. BOTTOM LINE: We will see what we will see. Every one of the species on the preceding list we see will be frosting added on the cake. Of course, the area has not escaped introduced species which means there is a "decent chance" of seeing Chukar, Wild Turkey, Eurasian Collared-Dove, European Starling, & House Sparrow! |
| BASIC ITINERARY: Thursday, 6/25/15 - Night: Kern River Valley Friday, 6/26/15 - Sierra Nevada East Side Birding (with Bob Barnes, leader) Night: Kern River Valley. Saturday, 6/27/15 - Kern River Valley & Southern Sierra Birding (with Bob Barnes, leader) Night: Kern River Valley. Sunday, 6/28/15 - Kern River Valley & Southern Sierra Birding (with John Schmitt, leader) Night: Kern River Valley. Monday, 6/29/15 - Greenhorn Mountains Transect Birding (with John Schmitt, leader) including early morning owling and c. 2pm trip conclusion. (Exact destinations each day will depend on where the most favorable birding conditions are at the time.) |
| MOTEL INFO: Bob Barnes has reserved the entire 8 room/10 bed (six rooms with single beds, two rooms with two beds) at Lakeview Motel - <http://www.lakeview-motel.com/> for Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, June 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th. Since those dates are during tourist season, reservations should be made ASAP before owners Bob or Linnae Jamison call Bob Barnes back telling him others are interested in renting rooms for one or more of those nights. |
| Advance reservations are needed; trip size is limited to 12 people. Trip fee is $18 per day or $72 for the 4-day trip. Make check payable to Sea & Sage Audubon and mail it to: Southern Sierra Trip, c/o Nancy Kenyon, 32 Almond Tree Ln, Irvine CA 92612-2230. Meeting time, additional trip information, & directions to the meeting place will be provided to those with reservations. |
| Please include the following information when you send in your reservation for this trip: |
Your phone number |
| Additional Information: Trip details including motel list will be sent to you via email |
Bird list (from multi-trips) |
| John Schmitt, Leader |
| Reservations: Nancy Kenyon; 949-786-3160; nancykenyon@cox.net |
Whitewater Field Trip
San Bernardino Audubon scheduled it;
Saturday, May 9
8:00 am
Whitewater Canyon
Steve Myers (951) 634-9767
Portions of Whitewater Canyon have long been more or less closed to public access, but the former trout farm is now the "Whitewater Canyon Preserve," managed by The Wildlands Conservancy. If you visited the trout farm in the past, you will not know the place now. Most of the facilities have been removed, and habitat restoration is under way. There are still a few ponds with trout, but riparian and desert scrub habitat should be teaming with birds on this trip. The canyon hosts nesting Summer Tanagers and Brown-crested Flycatchers, and migrants should be easy to find. In addition to the Preserve, we will visit Bonnie Bell, a small community in the canyon that contains excellent cottonwood and willow forest and woodland, somewhat reminiscent of Big Morongo. Meet at the Whitewater Canyon Preserve at 8:00 am (map). To reach the Preserve, go east on I-10, past the turn-off for Highway 111, and take the Whitewater exit. Turn left, pass over I-10, and watch for Whitewater Canyon Road on your left. The Preserve is at the end of Whitewater Canyon Road, approximately 5 miles north of I-10. Bring sturdy footwear, water, lunch, and the usual essentials.
Big Morongo in bloom
First Santa Monica Audubon;
https://smbasblog.wordpress.com/2015/04/25/morongo-valley-field-trip-sat-sun-2-3-may/
Pomona Valley Audubon scheduled on the same day lol;
Pasadena Audubon has scheduled a field trip too:
Saturday, May 16, 2015 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
This desert oasis and migrant trap offers great birding in the spring. Warblers, flycatchers, hummingbirds, and orioles are among the birds expected. At least one pair of Vermilion Flycatcher has been seen every spring in memory. Join us as we walk the trails in Big Morongo Canyon Preserve and into adjoining Covington Park, where you will enjoy one of the finest birding locations in Southern California, with over 250 species making stops at the preserve annually.
Directions: Allow 2 hours to drive from Pasadena. Take Interstate 10 east to route 62. Go north to the town of Morongo Valley and turn right on East Drive to the Big Morongo Preserve at 11055 East Drive. Meet at the information kiosk. Bring lunch, drinks, sunscreen, and a good broad-brimmed hat.
Ed Stonick
Apparently, early May is the best month for this bird haven; and I've visited this site already like 3 times lol. But to get a glimpse of Vermilion Flycatcher, the signature bird, is verra tempting...a package with Whitewater Preserve would be nice too, in fact one of the field trips did offer this?
https://smbasblog.wordpress.com/2015/04/25/morongo-valley-field-trip-sat-sun-2-3-may/
Pomona Valley Audubon scheduled on the same day lol;
| Sat May 2 | Big Morongo Canyon. A trip at the height of western migration for transient and returning species including Summer Tanager, Brown-crested Flycatcher and Yellow-breasted Chat. Carpool from Memorial Park 6 AM or meet on site. Leader: Dan Gregory 909-944-2259 |
Pasadena Audubon has scheduled a field trip too:
Saturday, May 16, 2015 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
This desert oasis and migrant trap offers great birding in the spring. Warblers, flycatchers, hummingbirds, and orioles are among the birds expected. At least one pair of Vermilion Flycatcher has been seen every spring in memory. Join us as we walk the trails in Big Morongo Canyon Preserve and into adjoining Covington Park, where you will enjoy one of the finest birding locations in Southern California, with over 250 species making stops at the preserve annually.
Directions: Allow 2 hours to drive from Pasadena. Take Interstate 10 east to route 62. Go north to the town of Morongo Valley and turn right on East Drive to the Big Morongo Preserve at 11055 East Drive. Meet at the information kiosk. Bring lunch, drinks, sunscreen, and a good broad-brimmed hat.
Ed Stonick
Apparently, early May is the best month for this bird haven; and I've visited this site already like 3 times lol. But to get a glimpse of Vermilion Flycatcher, the signature bird, is verra tempting...a package with Whitewater Preserve would be nice too, in fact one of the field trips did offer this?
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Birding down from Ventura
Wheeler's Gorge I've already mentioned.
Then, birded around Ventura;
Camarillo Real Park
Eh, not very interesting. Spotted a Robin though, Robin is one of the easiest birds to spot since it forages on the ground!
VENTURA WATER TREATMENT PLANT WILDLIFE PONDS
Very nice, there was a separate entry for us birders! Some Ruddy Ducks methink? Other than the usual Mallards and Coots. There even were babies following their mother lol. And others too, should check the photos again.
Ventura Harbor
So-so methink? Should also check the photos. Oh there were tons of House Sparrows nesting on the Palm Trees!!!
Marina Park
A pair of Loons! It wasn't transparent, almost white, white-grey, which specie is it. Also Grackle, Cowbirds, Blackbirds, Gulls..
Mugu Lagoon
There were a vista point, and one could park along PCH-1 S at some points, so could see some shorebirds. A scope surely would be good.
La Jolla Canyon and Big Sycamore Canyon
Bird songs but couldn't really spot..but at BSC, spotted 4 Green Parrots or Parakeets! There are easiest to spot since they are so noisy lol. Oh at one of those spots, at a higher point spotted a No. Mockingbird, a rarity in those areas(which is so common around Pasadena lol).
Malibu Lagoon
THOUSANDS of Terns, thought it was Caspian but SMBAS reports that it is Elegant, considering the crest it surely seems so. There were Cedar Waxwings? Didn't know that. Lots of Brown Pelicans and Gulls as usual. And spotted an Osprey eating lunch! SMBAS confirmed it too. Some crows, Egrets...as SMBAS report said, few passerines and Plovers.
https://smbasblog.wordpress.com/2015/04/28/malibu-lagoon-trip-report-26-april-2015/
Then, birded around Ventura;
Camarillo Real Park
Eh, not very interesting. Spotted a Robin though, Robin is one of the easiest birds to spot since it forages on the ground!
VENTURA WATER TREATMENT PLANT WILDLIFE PONDS
Very nice, there was a separate entry for us birders! Some Ruddy Ducks methink? Other than the usual Mallards and Coots. There even were babies following their mother lol. And others too, should check the photos again.
Ventura Harbor
So-so methink? Should also check the photos. Oh there were tons of House Sparrows nesting on the Palm Trees!!!
Marina Park
A pair of Loons! It wasn't transparent, almost white, white-grey, which specie is it. Also Grackle, Cowbirds, Blackbirds, Gulls..
Mugu Lagoon
There were a vista point, and one could park along PCH-1 S at some points, so could see some shorebirds. A scope surely would be good.
La Jolla Canyon and Big Sycamore Canyon
Bird songs but couldn't really spot..but at BSC, spotted 4 Green Parrots or Parakeets! There are easiest to spot since they are so noisy lol. Oh at one of those spots, at a higher point spotted a No. Mockingbird, a rarity in those areas(which is so common around Pasadena lol).
Malibu Lagoon
THOUSANDS of Terns, thought it was Caspian but SMBAS reports that it is Elegant, considering the crest it surely seems so. There were Cedar Waxwings? Didn't know that. Lots of Brown Pelicans and Gulls as usual. And spotted an Osprey eating lunch! SMBAS confirmed it too. Some crows, Egrets...as SMBAS report said, few passerines and Plovers.
https://smbasblog.wordpress.com/2015/04/28/malibu-lagoon-trip-report-26-april-2015/
Birding at Ojai
CANADA LARGA ROAD
First day, Apr. 23, dawn. Riot of birdsongs! No hooting of owls though. Think I spotted a Black Headed Grosbeak!!
OVAC
First day, Apr. 23, Acorn Woodpeckers, next day, WSJ abounded. At the nearby field, there were some Kingbirds methink, or Flycatchers? can't really say but it sure looked like Kingbirds with white on their chins or something.
OJAI MEADOWS PRESERVE
Never seen so many Turkey Vultures, and spotted a Hooded Oriole! Some passerines, lots of Cliff? Swallows, etc.
THACHER SCHOOL
Apr. 25 Morning, at a tree above the lower tennis courts, found like 6-10 Cedar Waxwings!
WHEELER GORGE
Apr. 27 early morning. At the Visitor Center, spotted a Steller's Jay on the ground, and Acorns at the topmost trees. Feeder attracted various species of Hummingbirds.
FOSTER PARK CAMPGROUND
Park itself, had to pay fees($2), so didn't go in.
Spotted some Black Phoebes near the entrance. Time was pressing so just skimmed through.
First day, Apr. 23, dawn. Riot of birdsongs! No hooting of owls though. Think I spotted a Black Headed Grosbeak!!
OVAC
First day, Apr. 23, Acorn Woodpeckers, next day, WSJ abounded. At the nearby field, there were some Kingbirds methink, or Flycatchers? can't really say but it sure looked like Kingbirds with white on their chins or something.
OJAI MEADOWS PRESERVE
Never seen so many Turkey Vultures, and spotted a Hooded Oriole! Some passerines, lots of Cliff? Swallows, etc.
THACHER SCHOOL
Apr. 25 Morning, at a tree above the lower tennis courts, found like 6-10 Cedar Waxwings!
WHEELER GORGE
Apr. 27 early morning. At the Visitor Center, spotted a Steller's Jay on the ground, and Acorns at the topmost trees. Feeder attracted various species of Hummingbirds.
FOSTER PARK CAMPGROUND
Park itself, had to pay fees($2), so didn't go in.
Spotted some Black Phoebes near the entrance. Time was pressing so just skimmed through.
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
First stop, Canada Larga Road
Since I have a 'meeting' early lol, for convenience's sake;
http://venturaaudubon.org/frame.html
5. CANADA LARGA RD. [No services or fee.] 5-mile dead-end road. Oak woodland/savanna, private ranch land. Respect private property. Beware fast traffic.Location: Take Hwy 33 off 101. Exit at Canada Larga Rd. Turn right. Park off road as you bird the canyon road to end.Highlights: Early a.m. or late eve. for owls. Golden Eagle (regular), hawks, Mountain (rare) and Western Bluebirds; variety of sparrows in winter. Yellow-breasted Chat, Phainopepla, grosbeaks, orioles (spring).Best Season: All year, esp. in spring, winter.
Maybe I'll head later to Lake Casitas, that day, but we'll see.
http://venturaaudubon.org/frame.html
5. CANADA LARGA RD. [No services or fee.] 5-mile dead-end road. Oak woodland/savanna, private ranch land. Respect private property. Beware fast traffic.Location: Take Hwy 33 off 101. Exit at Canada Larga Rd. Turn right. Park off road as you bird the canyon road to end.Highlights: Early a.m. or late eve. for owls. Golden Eagle (regular), hawks, Mountain (rare) and Western Bluebirds; variety of sparrows in winter. Yellow-breasted Chat, Phainopepla, grosbeaks, orioles (spring).Best Season: All year, esp. in spring, winter.
Maybe I'll head later to Lake Casitas, that day, but we'll see.
Montane sites by Pasadena Audubon
I'm rather enamored of Montane species, so maybe I should buy an Adventure Pass($30). You need it to explore the nook and cranny of SG Mts.
Pasadena Audubon has scheduled two field trips, already reserved for Antelope(well it's not strictly montane, but North lol).
http://pasadenaaudubon.org/?q=fieldtrips
------------------
Antelope Valley Migrant Traps
Saturday, May 2, 2015
6:30 am - 1:00 pm
During migration, the bodies of water and surrounding vegetation in the Antelope Valley attract a variety of birds taking a rest and refueling break during their journey. On May 2, Pasadena Audubon will search several of these key "oases" for northbound migrants. The trip starts at Piute Ponds, accessed with special permission from Edwards Air Force Base, therefore the number of participants will be limited. After Piute, we will visit Apollo Park and, time permitting, the (in)famous Lancaster Sewage Ponds. Birds sought include shorebirds, flycatchers, warblers, some of the resisdent A.V. specialties, and (with some luck) Bank Swallows, Black Terns, and Franklin's Gulls. To take advantage of the day's prime bird activity, trip participants should plan to meet at 6:30 (half an hour after sunrise) at a location to be specified in the Antelope Valley. We will aim to conclude the tour of the primary sites by 1 PM. Spotting scopes are recommended. This trip is open to 15 participants in addition to the trip leaders, with preference to those who did not go on this field trip last year, by order of sign-up. Contact Darren Dowell at dowell.darren@yahoo.com to sign up or for further information.
Leaders: Darren Dowell, Janet and Mark Scheel
Throop Peak
Saturday May 30, 2015
7:30 am - 1:00 pm
Join us as we explore one of the highest altitude trails in the San Gabriel Mountains during the peak time of year for montane birds. We'll hike at a leisurely pace to the summit of Throop Peak (elevation: about 9100 feet) as we search for Williamson's Sapsucker, White-headed Woodpecker, Dusky Flycatcher, Clark's Nutcracker, Townsend's Solitaire, Red Crossbill, and other montane species.
Meet at Dawson Saddle at mile 69.6 on the Angeles Crest Highway, about 45 miles from I-210 in La Canada. Bring plenty of water, lunch, sunscreen, bug repellant, sturdy shoes, a hat, a coat, and an Adventure Pass. The hike is about five miles round- trip with possible snow patches; a few sections are steep, and all of it is at altitudes in excess of 7900 feet. Please carpool and plan for about 90 minutes to drive up from Pasadena.
If it turns out that the Angeles Crest Highway between Islip Saddle and Vincent Gap is still closed on May 23, then we'll change the trip to hike up Mt. Waterman instead. If in doubt, contact me a few days prior by email.
Lance Benner
Pasadena Audubon has scheduled two field trips, already reserved for Antelope(well it's not strictly montane, but North lol).
http://pasadenaaudubon.org/?q=fieldtrips
------------------
Antelope Valley Migrant Traps
Saturday, May 2, 2015
6:30 am - 1:00 pm
During migration, the bodies of water and surrounding vegetation in the Antelope Valley attract a variety of birds taking a rest and refueling break during their journey. On May 2, Pasadena Audubon will search several of these key "oases" for northbound migrants. The trip starts at Piute Ponds, accessed with special permission from Edwards Air Force Base, therefore the number of participants will be limited. After Piute, we will visit Apollo Park and, time permitting, the (in)famous Lancaster Sewage Ponds. Birds sought include shorebirds, flycatchers, warblers, some of the resisdent A.V. specialties, and (with some luck) Bank Swallows, Black Terns, and Franklin's Gulls. To take advantage of the day's prime bird activity, trip participants should plan to meet at 6:30 (half an hour after sunrise) at a location to be specified in the Antelope Valley. We will aim to conclude the tour of the primary sites by 1 PM. Spotting scopes are recommended. This trip is open to 15 participants in addition to the trip leaders, with preference to those who did not go on this field trip last year, by order of sign-up. Contact Darren Dowell at dowell.darren@yahoo.com to sign up or for further information.
Leaders: Darren Dowell, Janet and Mark Scheel
Throop Peak
Saturday May 30, 2015
7:30 am - 1:00 pm
Join us as we explore one of the highest altitude trails in the San Gabriel Mountains during the peak time of year for montane birds. We'll hike at a leisurely pace to the summit of Throop Peak (elevation: about 9100 feet) as we search for Williamson's Sapsucker, White-headed Woodpecker, Dusky Flycatcher, Clark's Nutcracker, Townsend's Solitaire, Red Crossbill, and other montane species.
Meet at Dawson Saddle at mile 69.6 on the Angeles Crest Highway, about 45 miles from I-210 in La Canada. Bring plenty of water, lunch, sunscreen, bug repellant, sturdy shoes, a hat, a coat, and an Adventure Pass. The hike is about five miles round- trip with possible snow patches; a few sections are steep, and all of it is at altitudes in excess of 7900 feet. Please carpool and plan for about 90 minutes to drive up from Pasadena.
If it turns out that the Angeles Crest Highway between Islip Saddle and Vincent Gap is still closed on May 23, then we'll change the trip to hike up Mt. Waterman instead. If in doubt, contact me a few days prior by email.
Lance Benner
Apr. 21 Hahamongna, Descanso, Switzer
Haha was great, found pretty much all Montane signature species!
Since it was overcast and thus cool, decided to explore the No. section into the valley.
Found a Robin and Mt. Bluebird before the Horse Stable, and on the way to the main dirt road to the North..
encountered a bush. Right ahead was an opening.
Instinctly, thought I would find something, so tiptoed to the clearing and...
Voila, CALIFORNIA QUAILS!!!
Did see those, first was at Magpie Group meeting at...forgot where, and also at SD or South Coast Botanical Garden, those were in a cage(like a zoo). And of course, saw Gambel's at Salton Sea and at Coachella Valley Wild Bird Center(also in a cage), and at 1000 Palms.
But except for Salton Sea(Gambel's), it was the first time I spotted a California one on my own!!! Was delighted of course.
On the No. side also spotted tons of Swallows, also on the Pond; lone Mallard Male was swimming amid the swarming Swallows lol, and some Passerines as well. Spotted a Phainopepla too, and of course Acorn Woodpeckers.
Descanso was a dud, even worse than the first visit, maybe I visited too late in the day, arrived around 11am lol(tarried too long at H!). Not even a Junco unlike last time. Canadian Geese, Coots, Mallard? Very few Passerines too, on the No. trails, and did spot Acorn Woodpecker too, methink.
Since those areas were right below Angeles Crest Hwy(2), decided to visit Chilao Visitor Center again!
But alas, the gas was dangerously low lol, so eventually turned around and headed back to Switzer.
The campground itself, birdsongs notwithstanding couldn't really see anything except for Juncos, but on the way down to the campground(it is WAY below the Hwy), spotted some birds; American(my 2nd sighting!) and Lesser Goldfinch, and I think spotted a female? Lazuli Bunting!!! Maybe lol.
Did I spot a Grosbeak the last couple of days? Some pics seem suspiciously similar lol, but can't say.
Laptop is going crazy slow, so it might take some time to upload some choice pics, ugh.
Since it was overcast and thus cool, decided to explore the No. section into the valley.
Found a Robin and Mt. Bluebird before the Horse Stable, and on the way to the main dirt road to the North..
encountered a bush. Right ahead was an opening.
Instinctly, thought I would find something, so tiptoed to the clearing and...
Voila, CALIFORNIA QUAILS!!!
Did see those, first was at Magpie Group meeting at...forgot where, and also at SD or South Coast Botanical Garden, those were in a cage(like a zoo). And of course, saw Gambel's at Salton Sea and at Coachella Valley Wild Bird Center(also in a cage), and at 1000 Palms.
But except for Salton Sea(Gambel's), it was the first time I spotted a California one on my own!!! Was delighted of course.
On the No. side also spotted tons of Swallows, also on the Pond; lone Mallard Male was swimming amid the swarming Swallows lol, and some Passerines as well. Spotted a Phainopepla too, and of course Acorn Woodpeckers.
Descanso was a dud, even worse than the first visit, maybe I visited too late in the day, arrived around 11am lol(tarried too long at H!). Not even a Junco unlike last time. Canadian Geese, Coots, Mallard? Very few Passerines too, on the No. trails, and did spot Acorn Woodpecker too, methink.
Since those areas were right below Angeles Crest Hwy(2), decided to visit Chilao Visitor Center again!
But alas, the gas was dangerously low lol, so eventually turned around and headed back to Switzer.
The campground itself, birdsongs notwithstanding couldn't really see anything except for Juncos, but on the way down to the campground(it is WAY below the Hwy), spotted some birds; American(my 2nd sighting!) and Lesser Goldfinch, and I think spotted a female? Lazuli Bunting!!! Maybe lol.
Did I spot a Grosbeak the last couple of days? Some pics seem suspiciously similar lol, but can't say.
Laptop is going crazy slow, so it might take some time to upload some choice pics, ugh.
Target areas around Ojai
So, Ojai Meadow Preserve and Wheeler Gorge, will definitely visit since it's so near to the tournament grounds, and Lake Casitas too, the Ventura guide says one can park outside to avoid fee.
According to the guide Canada Larga Road is good too, maybe I'll stop by before heading to OVAC on THU.
Now, of course those aren't enough; Ventura County!
From Ojai to home;
MacGrath deserve high ratings, so I guess I must see(fee). But weird, Ventura guide doesn't mention it, only Ponds..
Ventura River Estuary
Mugu Lagoon and Rock
VENTURA WATER TREATMENT PLANT WILDLIFE PONDS
Rancho Sierra Vista, right at the top of Mugu Preserve, on the way home?
Those'll keep me busy!
Happy Birding! :)
According to the guide Canada Larga Road is good too, maybe I'll stop by before heading to OVAC on THU.
Now, of course those aren't enough; Ventura County!
From Ojai to home;
MacGrath deserve high ratings, so I guess I must see(fee). But weird, Ventura guide doesn't mention it, only Ponds..
Ventura River Estuary
Mugu Lagoon and Rock
VENTURA WATER TREATMENT PLANT WILDLIFE PONDS
Rancho Sierra Vista, right at the top of Mugu Preserve, on the way home?
Those'll keep me busy!
Happy Birding! :)
Ojai birding
From an angel from Ventura Audubon!
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#1 Ojai Meadow Preserve. Next to Norhoff High School. Tanagers, grosbeaks, flycatchers, bluebirds. The little pond there has sora and snipe. Walk back to the house at the back of the preserve and watch cliff swallows in their nests. Allow about 2 hours.
#2 Wheeler Gorge Campground. Park on the opposite side of the road. Check the hummer feeders at the visitor center for rufous, allens, annas and black chinned hummers. Mountain quail often call from the hillside. Walk into the campground for western wood peewee, orioles, flycatchers and warblers. Allow about 3 hours if possible but BRING INSECT REPELLENT!!!!
Let me know if you need any further info!
Happy birding!
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Yes lake casitas is great, but there is a 10 dollar entrance fee. if you go, start by turning rt inside the park. Stop at first cg on left for woodpeckers. Keep working your way to end of lake, then turn around and go back. When you get back to the entrance, keep going straight. At the restrooms there are trees wirh roosting night herons. In the eucs in front of you are the bald eagles.
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Yes lake casitas is great, but there is a 10 dollar entrance fee. if you go, start by turning rt inside the park. Stop at first cg on left for woodpeckers. Keep working your way to end of lake, then turn around and go back. When you get back to the entrance, keep going straight. At the restrooms there are trees wirh roosting night herons. In the eucs in front of you are the bald eagles.
Wheeler Gorge is free to walk in. Park outside and just walk in. It is ine of our best spots!
Monday, April 20, 2015
Ventura Audubon and birding sites
http://www.venturaaudubon.org/frame.html
Santa Clara River Estuary and McGrath State Beach
Services: Restrooms, Interpretive Center, Parking, Fee - McGrath State Beach
Habitats: Coastal estuary, salt marsh, riparian.
Location: From Seaward Ave., turn south onto Harbor Blvd. Park on street just before Santa Clara Bridge. Follow trail to river bottom. If flooded, cross bridge to McGrath State Beach and park in campground or go west on Spinnaker Dr. from Harbor Blvd. To the beach and walk south along the beach to the estuary.
Highlights: terns, plovers (Least Tern, Snowy Plover nest), Peregrine Falcon (winter)
Best Season: All year.
(No services.) Part of Mugu State Park. Ocean backed by cliffs.
Location: Take Pacific Coast Highway (Hwy 1 ) south from Ventura past Naval Air Weapons Station and Las Posas Road. Lagoon on right past end of freeway. Mugu Rock is ½ mile south of lagoon. Park in dirt areas at both sites.
Highlights: Lagoon: waders, shorebirds, ducks, terns, swifts. Rock: loons, murrelets, shearwaters, scoters, phalaropes. At sea: whales, seals in season.
Best season: Winter, spring
Services: Restrooms, Interpretive Center, Parking, Fee.
Habitat: Coastal strand, dunes, estuary, riparian
Location: Emma Woods Group Campground at north end of Main St. in Ventura. Park either outside alongside Main St. or in park and pay fee.
Highlights: Whimbrels, tattlers, shorebirds, ducks, shearwaters and more during migration.
Best season: Winter, early spring.
Services: None
Habitat: Coastal Sage Scrub, Riparian, Pond
Location: Take Hwy 101 south from Ventura and turn off on Las Posas Road. Go right and follow the signs to California State University Channel Islands off of Lewis Road, south of Camarillo. Turn east off of Lewis road. The park is on the left after you cross the bridge on Calleguas Creek. You can park near the gate and walk in.
Highlights: Chapparal birds, Cactus Wrens, Ducks and Shorebirds on the ponds.
Best Season: Winter, early spring
Services: Restrooms, Parking, Fee or park outside main gate, Camping
Lake area, freshwater marsh, oak woodland, open meadows.
Location: From Ventura off 101, take Highway 33 north toward Ojai. Take Highway 150 west to the park entrance.
Highlights: Early summer: sparrows, grosbeaks, Clark’s and Western grebes, Osprey, Western Bluebird, raptors, woodpeckers, nuthatches.
Best season: Good all year; best winter and spring.
No services or fee.
5-mile dead-end road.
Oak woodland/savanna, private ranch land.
Respect private property. Beware fast traffic.
Location: Take Highway 33 off 101. Exit at Canada Larga Rd. Turn right. Park off road as you bird the canyon road to end.
Highlights: Early morning or late evening for owls. Golden Eagle (regular), hawks, Mountain (rare) and Western bluebirds; variety of sparrows in winter. Yellow-breasted Chat, Phainopepla, grosbeaks, orioles (spring).
Best season: All year, especially in spring, winter.
Services: Restrooms, Parking, Fee on Sundays.
Oak woodland, grassy areas, chaparral, long broad canyon.
Location: From 101 exit at Victoria. Go north to Foothill Rd. Turn left. Continue to park entrance on right.
Highlights: kingbirds, hummingbirds, finches, orioles, raptors.
Best season: All year.
Part of Mugu State Park
Services: Restrooms, Interpretive Center, Parking.
Low coastal mountain park, open meadows, chaparral and sage scrub, some riparian, small ponds.
Location: From 101 south, exit at Wendy Dr. Turn left (west) at first traffic light onto Wendy Dr. Continue to end; turn right onto Potrero Rd. and left at stop sign. Follow signs to park entrance.
Highlights: Lazuli bunting, Blue grosbeak, Savannah and grasshopper sparrows, white-tailed kite, Costa’s hummingbird, raptors, roadrunner.
Best season: All year, especially spring and winter.
(elevation 8831 feet)
Services: Camping, Restrooms, Fee, available in several area camps.
Mountain area in NE Ventura county. Good year-round birding. All areas produce good sightings, especially good in campgrounds.
Location: From Ventura (90 miles), take Highway 126 east to Castaic Junction. Merge onto Interstate 5 north; exit at Frazier Park. Take Frazier Park Road west; follow signs to Mt. Pinos. One mile past the campgrounds at the top of the mountain is a large parking lot and several trails.
Highlights: High elevation birds. White-headed woodpecker, Clar’s nutcracker, Pygmy nuthatch, Western wood pewee, Green-tailed Towhee.
Best season: All year; best in spring, summer, fall.
Open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Coastal dunes, ponds, willows, reeds, habitat varied.
Location: From Highway 101 in Ventura, take Seaward toward the beach. Turn left onto Harbor Blvd. Continue on Harbor to Spinnaker Dr. Turn right. Then turn left at 1400 Spinnaker Dr. Enter the gate at 1400 Spinnaker. Turn Right on Bovee. Then left on Stehle (note there are two signs at this spot. The sign on the left says Stehle.) Then just past the building on the right turn right on Beswick. Park off the road near the Reed Drive sign at the corner of one pond. Reed Drive goes all the way around the two western ponds. There is also one pond to the east of Beswick.
Highlights: Bonaparte’s gull, ducks, sora, common moorhen, marsh wren, phalaropes, warblers, grebes, peregrine falcon, spring swallows.
Best season: All year, especially spring, fall, winter.
Part of Pt. Mugu State Park
Services: Restrooms, Parking, Fee.
Coastal sage scrub, campground. Trail starts just past main parking lot, crosses the stream several times as it climbs to the end at the pond. Lower portion fairly easy; more difficult after 2nd stream crossing.
Location: From Ventura or Oxnard take Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) south past Naval Air Weapons Station and Pt. Mugu Lagoon and Rock. La Jolla is about 2.5 miles south of the rock on the left. Park outside the entrance and walk in or pay fee and drive in.
Highlights: Lazuli bunting, rock and canyon wrens, Costa’s hummingbird, swallows, orioles (spring), quail, thrashers.
Best season: Spring, early summer.
Part of Pt. Mugu State Park.
Services: Parking, Restrooms, Camping, Fee.
Coastal sage scrub, eucalyptus and sycamore groves. Easy walking in camp area; canyon more difficult.
Location: Follow Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) south past Mugu Rock about 4 miles. Park on highway or pay day use fee.
Highlights: thrashers, towhees, migrant flycatchers and warblers, grosbeaks, woodpeckers.
Best season: Early spring, summer, fall.
Ventura City Park (R,P)
Open grassy area ringed by pines. Eucalyptus trees along the barranca and Aurora Dr., forming north border of park, are resting places for migrating monarch butterflies in late fall and winter.
Highlights: Hot spot for migrants, vagrants, and rarities. Spotted dove and Allen’s hummingbird resident.
Best season: All year, especially early spring and winter. Early morning best.
(elevation 7,000 feet), Lockwood and Cuyama Valleys
Very few services and only in camps or at the few stores along the route. Start with a full gas tank. Take water and snacks. Be prepared for snow in winter. Full day trip.
Habitat is mix of high desert, montane, valleys, open grassland, and agriculture. Many pockets of habitat for excellent birding.
Location: From Ventura take Highway 101 to Highway 33 north to Ojai. Turn left at Maricopa Highway (Highway 33). Continue on 33 for about 30-35 miles to Pine Mountain Summit. Continue on past Ozena Station (Good birding there, too.) About 1/2 miles beyond that is Lockwood Valley Rd. To bird Cuyama Valley, continue on Highway 33 past Lockwood Valley Rd.
Highlights: Valley good for many sparrows, several raptor species. Camps yield nuthatches (including pygmy nuthatch), creepers. Mountain bluebird, white-headed woodpecker in high camps. Pygmy owl (rare).
Best season: Winter, spring, late fall.
(elevation 1,500 feet)
Restrooms, Interpretive Center, Parking, Fee.
Mountain park with variety of trees, small gorges, and chaparral. Bird camp area plus river trail that fords creek (fairly difficult) and on up the mountain.
Location: Take Highway 33 from Ventura. Drive north past Ojai (Hwy. 33) through two tunnels to the campground. Park on right side of road and walk across to camp.
Highlights: orioles, Olive-sided flycatchers, Steller’s jay, dipper (rare), thrushes, solitary vireo, golden-crowned kinglet (rare).
Best season: Spring, summer.
No services.
Dead-end canyon roads lined with private ranches, pastures, orchards, oak woodland and chaparral. Respect private property and bird from road only.
Location: From Ventura take Seaward Ave. inland until it deadends at Foothill Rd. Turn right and follow that about 12 miles east toward Santa Paula. Both canyons on left.
Highlights: orioles, warblers, sparrows, raptors, wintering zone-tailed hawk (fairly regular), bluebirds, kites. Owls early morning or evening.
Best season: All year, especially early spring;
No services, Camping, Fee.
Varied habitat, with live oak, open grassy areas, creekside trails. Canyon is accessed from the grounds of St. Thomas Aquinas School. Expect a guard just inside grounds of school. Register and follow trail signs.
Location: From Ventura, take Santa Paula Freeway (Highway 126) east to 10th St. (Highway 150 to Ojai). Exit. Turn left, follow 150 north to Steckel Park. Santa Paula Canyon is about 2 miles further along Highway 150. Park outside on the side of the highway.
Highlights: woodpeckers, raptors, warblers, kinglets, vireos in park. Canyon yields spring warblers, vireos, flycatchers, dipper, tanagers, orioles, grosbeaks, canyon wrens, swifts, Costa’s hummingbird, golden eagle, zone-tailed hawk (especially in winter).
Best season: All year, especially spring.
Services: Restrooms, Parking, Fee at Pt. Hueneme Beach, free at end of Perkins Rd.
Coastal strand, dunes, marsh between ocean edge and water treatment plant.
Location: From Ventura, take Harbor Blvd. (becomes Channel Islands Blvd. as it curves to left.) Stay on Channel Islands to Ventura Rd. and turn right. Follow to end. Pay fee and park. Or, turn left on Hueneme Rd., continue to Perkins Rd. (just past "J" St.), turn right, go to end. Free parking at end of road on right.
Highlights: Endangered least tern/snowy plover nesting site. Sea and shorebirds, terns, brown pelican, bitterns. Rare migrants often found.
Best season: All year, especially summer for shorebirds; late spring and summer for nesting species.
Services: Restrooms, Parking, Camping, Fee.
Varied habitat, inland lake. Popular for boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, and camping.
Location: Take Highway 126 about 25 miles through Santa Paula and Fillmore to Lake Piru turnoff. Turn north. Follow signs to park entrance.
Highlights: Several varieties of sparrows, warblers, raptors, ducks. Bird entire area, especially perimeter and perimeter approach road.
Best season: Fall, winter, spring.
Services: Restrooms, Parking, Fee.
Varied city park habitat: cactus, oak, grassy areas, chaparral.
Location: Take 101 south through Camarillo to Camarillo Spring Rd. Exit freeway and turn left under 101 to stop sign. Turn right and continue to park.
Highlights: Cactus wren, Hermit thrush, Ground dove, Cedar waxwings, raptors, bluebirds, woodpeckers, kinglets.
Best season: All year, especially fall, winter, spring.
Services: Parking, Restrooms.
Riparian habitat, open fields.
Location: From 101 south, Take route 23 north to Hwy. 188 (old 23 extension). Follow old 23 west 1 mile and turn right at Morrpark Ave. Follow that to Broadway. Turn right and go to parking lot (with kiosk). Take trail to oaks.
Highlights: Vireos, goldfinches, raptors, sparrow species, orioles, grosbeaks, thrushes.
Best season: Fall, winter, spring.
Chumash Park, high chaparral and creekside trail
Services: Parking, limited at trailhead)
Location: From 101 South, take Route 23 north to 118 east. Follow 118 to Yosemite Ave. in Simi Valley and turn north. Follow that to Flanagan and turn right and go to the end. Park on street at right. Take trail north from map kiosk.
Highlights: sparrows, wren, thrashers, roadrunner, grosbeak, lazuli bunting finches. Great wild flowers.
Best season: Early spring.
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Apr. 17 Bolsa Chica and its environ some pics
Can't upload whole in one go, virus infected laptop can't handle it, alas..so some choice ones.
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