In spite of an invigoratingly windy day and temperatures in the low- to mid-60s, our Birdwatchers Club excursion to San Elijo Lagoon was enjoyable. We began on the south side of the ecological reserve, so we could take advantage of a docent-led walk by Jack who shared as much interesting information on native shrubs and other plants as on birds.

Right away, we observed a Northern Harrier and an Osprey flying in close proximity, as if they were trying to outdo each other in skillfully navigating the gusty winds. We saw the Osprey frequently throughout our time at the lagoon. Other raptors included a White-tailed Kite and an American Kestrel.

Because high tide covered the lagoon’s mudflats for most of our visit, there was not the greater variety of migratory shorebirds and waterfowl that we had hoped to see. But we did watch lots of Willets, several Long-billed Curlews and Whimbrels, a few American Wigeons, and three Bufflehead ducks.

After lunch at Chief’s Burgers & Brew in Solana Beach, we drove around to the north shore in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, where the highlight was an excellent view of a Marbled Godwit. Total walking distance on the reserve’s trails was about 2.6 miles.Our Birdwatchers Club excursion to Whelan Lake, a 73-acre bird sanctuary located on the northern side of Oceanside, was quite the success. We were guided by Docent John Haddock who provided great expertise and experience as he led us about.