Field Trip: Merced and San Luis Wildlife Refuges

Leader: Rich Page, (408) 377-1092. 

Directions: Meet at the parking area near the first Observation Platform in Merced National Wildlife Refuge. From Hwy 101 in Gilroy take Hwy 152 East thru Los Banos (no services past Los Banos, so check your gas gauge), approx. 20 miles, then north 7 miles on Rte 59 to Sandy Mush Rd, turn left approx. 8 miles to Merced Wildlife Refuge, on the left. Allow 2.5 hrs driving time from San Jose, more if it’s foggy. 

Highlights: Raptors, ducks, geese, Great Horned Owls, Sandhill Cranes, and White-faced Ibis possible. 

Notes: This will primarily be a driving bird trip so FRS radios (Walkie-Talkies) set to channel 11 will prove to be of value. After Merced Wildlife Refuge we will caravan to San Luis Wildlife Refuge for lunch and more birding. Dress in layers; bring lunch, liquids, and a full tank of gas. Rain cancels