[EBB Sightings] Rail yes, otters no

I went to Jewell Lake (Tilden) earlt this AM specifically to look at the river otters. They weren't there. Perhaps the usual Sat. crowds and boisterous humans big and little, scared them off. I'd forgotten all about the Virginia Rail but it was out in the open on an unofficial trail through the reeds at the NW end. Also seen was a Red breasted SAPSUCKER along the board walk. I noticed the board walk is a whole different experience in the winter as a lot of the deciduous foliage has fallen and allows some viewing further than the edge of the walkway. Along the main trail was a YLW X RED shafted Northern Flicker (red nape and moustache), Downy Woodpecker, and Fox sparrows.

Judi Sierra
Oakland