[EBB Sightings] Rock Wren at Coyote Hills RP

At 3:30 today, a very nice ROCK WREN was on the orange lichen-covered rocks at the crest of the Muskrat Trail at Coyote Hills RP.  To reach this area, park near the entrance of the Quarry parking lot and climb the steep hill past the hillside ramada.  I remained motionless and the rock wren stayed out in the open, allowing me a long look, but five minutes later, after other people and a dog had passed, I could not refind the bird.

Near the rocks higher up to the southeast of the wren site, I found the LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE.  One of four BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHERS popped up in the bush directly behind the shrike, reminding me of Roadrunner popping up behind Wiley Coyote, only the gnatcatcher didn't say "beep beep"; still seemed like risky business to me.  The other three gnatcatchers were on the hillside above the hillside ramada.

A pair of male NORTHERN HARRIERS chased each other over territory at South Marsh, settling in the long grass near each other in some kind of treaty.

Three loud WESTERN SCRUB JAYS made it clear that the GREAT HORNED OWL was indeed in residence in the eucalyptus off the spur trail that leads to Hoot Hollow.  The owl was in its usual position, tall against the tree trunk, eyes wide open thanks to the jays.  To reach this area, take the Quail Trail up from the Visitor Center past the portapotty, and turn onto the diagonal footpath that leads back to Hoot Hollow (don't take the stairs to Hoot Hollow).  The owl roosts in the large eucalyptus on the right as you look up the hill.  Look past the "waterfall" of eucalyptus leaves and follow the tree trunk with your binoculars.  

I didn't expect to find 42 species on this blustery, gray afternoon with that expectant, just-waiting feeling that comes before the rain.  Even the frequent barrages of unusually loud gunfire from the nearby rifle range couldn't spoil it.


Stephanie Floyd
Fremont