Raptors at Wavecrest Open Space Preserve, Half Moon Bay

Leader: Maureen Lahiff, MLahiff@aol.com, 510.484.6529

Date: Saturday, January 24 --10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Price: $40 Members $32 Non Members 

Description: This 250 acre preserve on the bluffs of the Pacific Ocean in Half Moon Bay was purchased and set aside as a premier site for raptors. Red-tailed Hawks, Red-shouldered Hawks, American Kestrels, Northern Harriers and White-tailed Kites are likely. The coastal prairie and scrub are bordered by strips of Monterey Cypress and stands of eucalyptus. Raptors perch on these trees and on Coyote Brush in the scrubland.  It can be windy here, which is great for soaring birds.

The dirt trails are level, but if there has been rain, there could be mud and puddles. Keep that in mind when selecting footwear for the trip.  Likely total distance of about 1.5 miles.  

Bring snacks and water. (We won’t be taking a formal lunch break, as there is nowhere to sit. You can pack a lunch to eat in the parking lot at the end of the trip or explore the delights of local cuisine before you head home.)

There is very little shade, and the sun can be intense, even this time of the year. 

The restrooms near the parking area are usually open on weekends, and there are chemical toilet “porta-potties.” 

If you need a pair of GGBA’s loaner binoculars, please let Maureen know by Monday, January 19.

Spotting scopes are welcome and appreciated.

Trip will be cancelled if steady rain is forecast. 

Trip limit: 15

Wavecrest Open Space is located off Highway 1 in Half Moon Bay. From Highway 92 west go south on Highway 1 and about 1.5 miles to Wavecrest Road. Turn right onto Wavecrest Road. You’ll see Cameron’s English Pub and the Aristocrat Hotel  on the corner. Drive to the end of Wavecrest Road and park. The lot is unpaved and a bit rough. You'll see the baseball diamonds on your right.

Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wKNJVsDZkZxdKqJn9

Registration opens on Tuesday, December 16, at 1 pm and closes on Thursday, January 22, at 11 pm.