[EBB Sightings] Martinez Shoreline and McNabney

The following were at the Martinez shoreline after the rains on Saturday. 
On the pond, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers and 2 Common Goldeneyes among the
Canvasbacks and Ruddy Ducks.  In the mudflat, 4 Black-crowned Night-Heron
(including 1 juvenile) were down from their roosting spot.  Just a lone
Long-billed Dowitcher among the Avocet and Black-necked Stilt.  The 10+
Semipalmated Plover that are usually present around low tide were not
present this afternoon.    A patient birder can spot Virginia Rail on the
North side of the cement bridge here, usually at low tide.   At the remote
West end of the trail, offshore, were 12+ Barrow’s Goldeneye, 1 Surf
Scoter, and small numbers of Clark’s and Western Grebe.  The Scaup
flotilla is still small.  Two sea lions were on the buoy far offshore.

At McNabney Marsh, which was drained until a month ago, the ducks are
returning.  There were perhaps several hundred Northern Shoveler and
Green-winged Teal.  Also handfuls of Northern Pintail, American Wigeon,
Cinnamon Teal, and Bufflehead.   The Egyptian Goose is present.  I haven’t
seen any Common Moorhen since the marsh was refilled.  The viewing
platform is far better in the morning with the sun at your back.

Patrick King
Martinez / Berkeley