Saturday 7th September 2013

   Right then, first full day. Pescadaro Marshes, just south of Half Moon Bay, was our stop today. The book says it is a 'jewel', lets hope it lives up to that!!!

   We parked the car, walked back along the road and under the road bridge. Where the creek goes under the road, there were Gulls bathing, and a few waders again. This time a few Least Sandpipers, a Spotted Sandpiper and a Short-billed Dowitcher, these were joined by a second of each, a bit later, and in the end 20+ Leasts.

Short-billed Dowitcher

Short-billed Dowitcher

Least Sandpiper

Least Sandpiper

   After walking onto the Marsh, and a quick search of the pools, we had a few ducks and Grebes to add to the list. Then over the ridge to the South, we picked up some Raptors. Turkey Vultures, a Red-tailed Hawk and 2 or 3 juvenile Northern Harriers. Herons there included Great White & Snowy Egret and Great Blue Heron. There were also Sparrows and Warblers calling all around us, the Warbler calls i recognised, Common Yellowthroat!
   As always the Yellowthroats were a nightmare to photograph!!!

Northern Harrier

Red-tailed Hawk

   We stopped under the bridge again, in the shade, as it was dinnertime. we were joined by the same Waders, and Gulls. But, one was a bit bigger, my first Glaucous-winged Gull! Sadly, it didn't hang around for photos, oh well, should be more later in the trip? We were also joined by a couple of pairs of Brewers Blackbirds, and on the other side of the creek, a Black Phoebe.

   After dinner, it was decision time. Do we spend the afternoon here, or go back to the harbour at Half Moon Bay? We decided to stay.

Common Yellowthroat (1st Winter Male)

   The birding was a bit harder in the afternoon, as always, but  i finally managed some half decent shots of the Yellowthroats, although not the adult males. There were loads of Dragonflies and Butterflies around to keep us occupied. But, another lifer was top of the list, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, again into the sun, but a lifer none the less.

Common Yellowthroat (Female)

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

Mylitta Crescent

Green Darner

Field Crescent