[EBB Sightings] Phainopepla at Castle Rock

About 10 of us birded today at Castle Rock Regional Park in Walnut  
Creek.  It was an especially "birdie" morning with Western Kingbird,  
Western Bluebird (both adults and spot-breasted juveniles), Huttons's  
Vireo, Bewick's Wren, Lark Sparrow, Cooper's Hawk, Nuttall's and  
Acorn Woodpeckers, Bullock's and Hooded Orioles, White-throated  
Swift, and quite a few other species.  However the highlight of the  
day was, for most of us, a lovely shiny black Phainopepla with it's  
crested head and red eyes perched on top of an oak along the trail  
about half way to the first creek crossover.  We looked for, but did  
not find. Peregrine Falcon at the Castle Crags where we have seen  
them in years past.  Has anyone seen them there this year?

To get to Castle Rock, follow Ygnacio Valley Rd out to Walnut AVENUE  
(not Walnut Blvd) and turn right.  At the roundabout bear right onto  
Castle Rock Rd and follow it out to the end.  Park in the gravely  
area outside of the park entrance, then walk in.

Best birding to you all,

Marilyn Trabert
Walnut Creek