Migratory Shorebirds and More at Pinole Point

Leader: Daniel Elting, delting1213@gmail.com, (650) 773-9504

Date: Sunday August 24 – 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Description: Come join Daniel Elting for a leisurely stroll through Pinole Point to welcome the fall migration! We'll start our trip at the Pinole Point Regional Park railroad crossing, where mature eucalyptus trees may accommodate nice views of local resident raptors such as Red-tailed Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, and White-tailed Kite! Quickly from there we will work our way south to the Dotson Family Marsh, a beautifully maintained piece of brackish (partially-saline) marsh along the eastern shore of San Pablo Bay. Fall migratory shorebirds can't resist this crucial stopover sanctuary, as these marshlands are crucial stops for these exhausted migrants, who have a long trek southward from their summer breeding grounds in the arctic tundra. The marsh also supports a whole host of other bird species, including several species of gull and tern, and resident aquatic waders such as Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, and Snowy Egret. The trail is well maintained and walking for the trip will top-out at around 1-mile round-trip. The walk is primarily flat, but includes a short~100 ft-long descent from the eucalyptus grove down to the marsh area, not recommended for ADA needs. Come prepared for multiple weather conditions including heat, cold, and high winds. Hope to see you there!

Trip limit: This trip will have an attendance cap of 12 attendants. 

Directions: Navigate to the Point Pinole Regional Shoreline Parking at the Giant Highway Staging Area (off the Giant Hwy). Parking is abundant and free of charge! We will meet in front of the commemorative sign for the historic site of the Giant Gunpowder Company next to the parking area. 

Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3ySYYen8BRB3hgN99

Registration for this event will open at 1pm on Tuesday July 15 and close at 11pm on Thursday August 21