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Western Wood Pewee by Erica Fleniken
Rancho Cañada del Oro (Morgan Hill)
Tucked in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Rancho Cañada del Oro is an open space preserve that has miles of trails through chaparral and oak woodlands. We'll stroll alongside the meandering Llagas Creek looking and listening for the birds of spring and summer such as Western Wood Pewee, Cassin's Vireo, Black-headed Grosbeak, and House Wren. Optional: After the trip, we’ll meet at Calero Reservoir to picnic together (parking fees at this 2nd location).
Optional: pack your own lunch/snack and we'll picnic together afterwards.
Creek Crossing
Trip Difficulty: 3 miles, paved trails, packed-dirt trails, uneven or rutted trails, little or no elevation gain, little to no shade, poison oak alongside trail (wear long pants), Be prepared for a creek crossing. The water is shallow and there are rocks to use to avoid the water.
Other Trip Notes: Weather variable. Some mornings can be cold and foggy, others can be hot. Wear layers.
Binoculars: I have a few extra binoculars, please txt me if you will need one for this trip.
Leaders: Eve Meier (408) 569-9391, Edward Rooks (408) 318-2485
Family Friendly Ages 10 and up, Intermediate Level Birding, Loaner Binoculars Available
Meet: Overflow Parking Lot
Directions: From US-101, exit Bailey Ave. Continue west on Bailey Ave for 3 miles. Turn left onto McKean Rd, continue for 2.5 miles, then turn right onto Casa Loma Rd. The preserve is located at the end of Casa Loma Rd and the overflow lot is 1/4 mile up the road from the main parking lot - please do not park in the gravel equestrian lot. Latitude/Longitude of the overflow lot: 37.144862, -121.779067
Facilities: ADA accessible pit toilet, cell phone service
Parking Type and Fees: first location: dirt parking lot with no fees, second location: paved/dirt parking, fees (use Santa Clara County Park annual pass, otherwise it is $6.00 per car, credit card only)
Questions? Email general questions to fieldtrips@scvbirdalliance.org or contact the trip leader for questions regarding the event.