Sat. Sept. 23, 10am-4pm

Santa Cruz, located on the northern end of beautiful Monterey Bay (south of San Jose), is famed for its beaches, boardwalk, high surf and university. But with its many parks, rocky cliffs and dramatic coastline, this Coney Island of the West is also a favorite spot for birds. Its many wild areas include ocean headlands and inlets, beaches and redwood forests. We will try to sample as many habitats as possible as we tour the city, from the seacoast to hillside woodlands. We anticipate many birds of all kinds, from ducks, raptors and shorebirds to grebes, pelicans and songbirds. We usually see about 40-50 different species in a day, of all kinds. We will also visit two local sites to view thousands of over-wintering monarchs! Minimal walking, less than a mile, broken up by short drives to different parks. Bring or buy lunch there; meet at Natural Bridges State Beach entrance. Quickest route from the East Bay is 880 to 17 south to Santa Cruz, then Hwy 1 west (Cabrillo Hwy) a short way to Natural Bridges State Beach. Meet at the entrance to the park.