Shorebird Marsh Overlook: https://ebird.org/checklist/S154534230
Marta’s Marsh: https://ebird.org/checklist/S154534229
Date: November 15, 2023
Location:
Shorebird Marsh Overlook (37°56’00.7″N 122°30’55.9″W)
Marta’s Marsh (11°00′N 75°45′W)
Site Description:
The Shorebird Marsh Overlook had a view of a coastal landscape, with marshy areas and open waters. The topography is generally flat. The habitat is primarily marshland, featuring a mix of saltwater and freshwater elements. Key bird species include various shorebirds like egrets, herons, and sandpipers.
Marta’s Marsh has tropical surrounding with vegetation around and freshwater habitats . The topography includes areas with open water, dense vegetation. The general habitat led to tropical wetlands, aquatic vegetation, etc. The marsh had bird species like Least Sandpipers, Song Sparrows, etc.
Species Account:
Ridgway’s rail (Rallus obsoletus)
Ridgway’s rail, previously called California Clapper Rail, is a medium-sized marsh bird that is about 13-19 inches in length. They have a long, curved bill, a cinnamon-brown plumage on the neck and breast, and olive-brown upper parts. The underparts are grayish with dark streaks. They have short wings and a short upturned tail. They are typically found in coastal marshes. They are observed in dense vegetation where they can forage for food. They are primarily carnivorous and feed on small invertebrates. These rails are monogamous during the breeding season
Narrative:
We left for Corte Madera around 8:20 AM and got to the Shorebird Marsh Overlook around 8:45 AM. It was a pretty chilly day but we got to see many shorebirds. After an hour, we went to Marta’s Marsh which was pretty closeby. The first thing I saw were the European doves just chilling. As we continued to walk, it started drizzling, it felt super nice. We saw more shorebirds like the Buffleheads while walking there. Before we were about to leave, we saw a Peregrine Falcon flying behind European starlings. We were all super excited on this whole trip for our In-n-Out trip after!
Sources:
- Sibley, D. A. (2003). The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America.
- eBird. (https://ebird.org)