Sat. Oct. 12, 9am-12am
This large wetland complex of several hundred acres along the Petaluma River is a wonderful setting for viewing a great array of birdlife year-round. Against a panoramic view of the Marin hills to the south, herons, blackbirds or sandpipers can often be seen flying over the ponds. Particularly in the fall and winter it hosts large numbers of herons, ducks, egrets, sandpipers, hawks, geese and swans. Additionally, many species of songbirds, including sparrows, finches, pipits, bluebirds and jays, live in the thickets and woodlands around the ponds. It is also a good place to see Mute swans, the very impressive, large snow-white member of the wildfowl family. Altogether a very exciting place for birds this fall! Terrain is flat, with a leisurely walk of about 1-2 miles. The park is a short drive from 101 in Petaluma: from 101 make left (first exit in Petaluma, go east) on 116, or Lakeville Hwy; drive several blocks to S. McDowell, right again short distance to Cader Lane, right into parking lot. Meet there. Check Google maps for more info; about a 30-45 minute drive from the East Bay. Very scenic, with good opportunities for landscape and bird photography. A typical number of species seen in a morning is about 30-40.