DAASV Tidal Marsh Hike & Bird-Watching Tour 8/4/09

Dartmouth Alumni Association of Silicon Valley arranged for a nature talk followed by bird watching hike at Baylands in Palo Alto, CA 8/4/09.

We met inside the Lucy Evans Baylands Nature Interpretive Center, where a ranger presented information about the salt marshes and the history of the Baylands Park area.

Following the presentation and guided bird watching hike, a small celebration of JanetK's birthday was held in the parking lot.

These photos are available for download by participants. If any are published, a photo credit to George Hamma would be appreciated.
(C) George Hamma 2009

The Lucy Evans Baylands Nature Interpretive Center, enjoying the addition of a Dartmouth banner to guide us to the meeting place.
The group of attendees discussed the history of the baylands salt marsh area. People trickled in during the presentation preceding the tour.
There was an interesting discussion of migration behavior, and not just for birds.
Everyone seemed eager to view the preserve.
We walked to the edge of the bay on the boardwalk, where there is a viewing platform.
Along the way we were introduced to the plants of the salt marsh.
The salt marsh was quiet, as it was not close to high tide.
The ranger talked about the many residents of the salt marsh and how they interact.
The ranger pointed out several kinds of birds and plants visible near the bay.
The evening was exceptionally clear, and we could see from Mt. Diablo to Mt. Uminum.
Most of the birds flying over the salt marsh were barn swallows, which live under the nature center building.
Carol had little problem joining us on the walk.
After visiting the bay, we viewed the birds along the mud flats, a significant source of food.
We were told the most popular time for bird viewing is about an hour after high tide, when the mud flats become an active feeding ground.
A fantastic day by the bay.
The long-legged shore birds seemed particularly at home here.
Each bird type has its favorite area to check for food.
Some visiting geese.
There are good walking paths that wander through this area of Palo Alto next to the airport.
Several hundred pelicans were in the area.
After the bird watching, we enjoyed gourmet cupcakes.
Happy Birthday, Janet!