PAS Field Trip Report: Mission Trails Park

Palomar Audubon had quite a successful bird walk yesterday at Mission Trails Regional Park. We traversed the usual route, beginning at the Oak Canyon Trail trailhead near the Old Mission Dam and then headed over to the Grasslands Loop area.

We encountered intermittent drizzle early on but that didn’t deter 27 birders or our avian marvels. Skies remained overcast throughout our walk with temperatures hovering in the high 50s to low 60s and there was a slight breeze. We found a rewarding number of 55 species and many were cooperative giving us good views to appreciate their field markings and behavior.

I think our group would all agree that a couple favorite sightings were the Yellow-breasted Chat and the Grasshopper Sparrow.  Chats, oftentimes deeply hidden among newly leafed out trees, were making a showing and were quite photogenic. The Grasshopper Sparrow’s insect-like buzz was heard as soon as we approached the large grassland area, and then the search was game on. There were also several species of warblers, grosbeaks, the Lazuli Bunting, vireos, and the usual suspects.

It was wonderful to see a few new faces in the group and all of our familiar, enthusiastic, supportive friends. Thank you all for your contributions.

Please see our eBird checklist by clicking on the link below or pasting it into your browser, and be sure to check out the amazing photos.  https://ebird.org/checklist/S232690748

Bird On!
Thank you.
Mary Jo Hayes
Escondido, CA

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