Birding Lake Merritt, and Arrowhead Marsh at High Tide

Winter ducks on Lake Merritt and other birds usually means easy viewing from the sidewalk. The lake is one of the few places in the Bay Area where Barrow's Goldeneyes can be seen. An entry fee past the gate at Children's Fairyland is usually required.

We will move to Arrowhead at around 10:00AM, arriving in time for the high tide. Ridgeway's Rails are one of the highlights here, though we will see many other birds. A visit to Garretson Point will follow. Bring lunch and drinks.

This trip is appropriate for birders of all experience levels, including beginners.

Hike rating: Category 1--Easy

Elevation change: N/A

Leader: Sandy Ritchie, (925) 381-2514

Meet: Lake Merritt parking lot off Bellevue Avenue, 8:30 AM

Directions: Take SR 24 to Oakland and I-980, take 27th Street exit and turn left. Cross Broadway and Harrison, then join Grand Avenue. Turn into park at Children's Fairyland (fee possible) and follow around to parking lot entrance on right between boathouse and aviary.

This field trip is limited to 15 participants.

Photo: Ridgway's Rail by Beth Branthaver

Host or Publisher Mount Diablo Bird Alliance