Our Birdwatchers Club group enjoyed ideal weather this morning that was kept pleasantly cool beneath low coastal overcast, until warming sunshine broke through quickly disappearing clouds with cool ocean breezes during the last hour of our excursion.  The wide, level trail offered easy walking along the north shore of Batiquitos Lagoon and good views of the wetland habitat and open water. 

     While we saw few waterbirds and shorebirds, we did see a few flycatchers (Cassin’s Kingbird, Ash-throated Flycatcher and Black Phoebe), Song Sparrows, House Finches, Mourning Doves and the non-native Nutmeg Manikins (Munias).  We had fleeting glimpses of the Common Yellowthroat (warbler), thought we briefly heard an oriole, and observed a Belted Kingfisher perched atop a dead tree branch jutting from the water.  Elusive Wrentits called their distinctive trills from nearby shrubby habitat. 

     It was good to see so many people of all ages out walking or jogging -- enjoying this protected environment.  After our walk on two sections of the trail, we had a delicious lunch at the nearby Tin Leaf (at El Camino Real and Aviara).  This writer thoroughly enjoyed the butternut squash soup and fresh Loch Duart, Scotland, salmon on a salad.