Self-guided Birding Locations
Emily Renzel Ponds in Palo Alto is a small but delightful birding spot just east of US-101, about halfway between Charleston Slough and Palo Alto Baylands. It consists of two freshwater ponds and can be birded easily in an hour or so.
During the spring and summer months, swifts and swallows decorate these ponds, which are located near Almaden Lake in San José. It is a great location to bird on the weekends because it is relatively quiet and uncrowded compared with better known parks nearby.
Joseph D. Grant County Park is a large, uncrowded park in the east foothills of San José. It features a variety of habitats, wide trails, and easy access to parking.
July through September are the months to see the small and graceful Wilson’s and Red-necked Phalaropes. These birds are usually found on the East and West Ponds of the Sunnyvale Water Pollution Control Plant. And, if you are lucky, you may even see them spin!
