Stanislaus Audubon Society

Merced National Wildlife Refuge is teeming with waterfowl and other birds in winter. Most of the birds are easily viewed, making for enjoyable and easy birding. Sandhill Cranes will have returned from their breeding areas by this date. We will meet at the kiosk and viewing platform located at the end of the entry road on the main portion of the Merced NWR. Note that this is an approximately 75-minute drive from Modesto. We will start our birding in the kiosk area and then go on the 5-mile long auto tour loop, stopping frequently to look at birds. We may also take a short walk at the Bittern Marsh trail. Participants of all skill levels are welcome and should bring binoculars, water, snacks, and insect repellant. 

For questions, please contact John Fulton at Merced_birding@hotmail.com

O’Neil Forebay is part of the San Luis State Recreation Area of the State Park System. There is a $10.00 entrance fee per vehicle. We will meet at the San Luis Reservoir Medeiros Kiosk on Donohugh Rd. W. off Highway 33 at 8:00 a.m. We will bird from the Medeiros east side of the forebay and then move to the San Luis Creek unit on the west side of the forebay. This large body of water will have gulls, egrets, a few shorebirds, grebes, and possibly loons. By this date there should be several species of waterfowl, including Ruddy Duck, Bufflehead, Northern Pintail, Common Goldeneye, Lesser Scaup, and possibly Red-breasted Merganser. Raptors such as Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcon, and both species of eagle are possible. Bring water, lunch or snacks, and binoculars. Trip leaders will have spotting scopes, but it is useful to bring your own if you have one.

For questions, please contact John Fulton at Merced_birding@hotmail.com