Date: 1/14/25 5:40 pm From: Peg Albrets via groups.io <pegmomrn...> Subject: [southbaybirds] birding at Los Capitancillos Ponds
Hello everyone......yesterday, Eve Meier and I led a lovely group of birders, both beginners and regulars, on a morning trip to Los Capitancillos Ponds in San Jose. It was a bit cold in the beginning but sunny, and we saw a total of 33 species. It took us a bit of time to even get to the first pond off Meridian, as Eve spotted a Western Kingbird, posing atop a tree in full view in a backyard. We think it was likely a female, as it was pale yellow on the belly; the bill was short and black, white throat and light gray on top. [image: IMG_6227.JPG] We also heard and saw a hermit thrush, and saw a ruby crowned kinglet flash his red crest. Once we made it to the first pond, the first thing we saw was the common loon! As we watched, he came closer so we could get a great view. [image: IMG_6228.JPG]
Other highlights were western bluebirds, 2 American widgeons (a pair), common mergansers, ruddy ducks, buffleheads, watching a belted kingfisher hunting, a beautiful red tailed hawk, and a surprise sharp-shinned hawk soaring over Meridian Ave as we finished our walk.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
