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Palo Alto Baylands
Cliff Swallow by Chuq von Rospach
On this trip, we will learn about the summertime breeding and nesting behaviors of Cliff and Barn Swallows. We will wander past brackish sloughs to look for shorebirds including Avocets, Black-necked Stilts, Killdeer, and Greater Yellowlegs. At the duck pond and on the Marsh Trail, we'll look for Black-crowned Night Heron, Greater and Snowy Egrets, Forster's Terns, and Song Sparrows. We may spot Northern Harrier low across the marsh and Turkey Vultures overhead. In addition to observing diverse bird species, we will stop at several buildings and locations steeped in local history and explore the special plants that have learned to adapt, grow, and thrive in the marsh, sustaining the wonderful bird and animal life. This trip is designed for families, but all are welcome to attend.
Trip Difficulty: 2 miles, easy, flat, wide, dirt-packed trails. Some trails have crushed oyster and decomposed granite tread. Some shade, some benches. The Lucy Evans Interpretive Center has a short gravel ramp. There is a wheelchair accessible wooden ramp/path on both sides of the EcoCenter building leading up to the deck. There are handle bars/railing leading up to and along the deck.
Leaders: Diane McCoy, (650) 714-3769 and Peg Alberts (408) 891-3554
Beginner Friendly, Family Friendly All Ages, Wheelchair Accessible, Stroller Friendly
Meet: Parking Lot for Lucy Evans Nature Center
Directions: From US-101 in Palo Alto take Embarcadero Rd east towards the bay. Pass the airport and turn left at the T-intersection. Continue for 0.5 miles passing the duck pond. Just over the bridge, the interpretive center (2775 Embarcadero Rd) will be on your left and the paved parking area will be on your right. Latitude/Longitude: 37.459384, -122.106171
Facilities: One ADA-compliant porta-potty near the sailing dock, one non-ADA compliant porta-potty at the duck pond.
Parking Type and Fees: Paved parking with ADA-compliant spots, no fees.
Questions? Email general questions to fieldtrips@scvas.org or contact the trip leader for questions regarding the event.