Date: 1/20/26 12:59 pm From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: [SFBirds] Waterfowl
I was trying to do some land birding based on faulty weather forecasts, but after noting the strong wind and seeing some messages about fowl movement, I went over to the Sutro Baths for a late watch. I suspect I missed the best movement, but between 8:45 and 10:30, there were three flocks of ducks, mostly N Pintail with some N Shovelers and a few Am Wigeon. All approached from the open sea, with two heading east through the Gate and one heading south. The highlight was a lone female Redhead moving east toward the GG. A first for me this winter at this site was a female Red-breasted Merganser. This species is usually the second most common duck during fall and winter. Another recently sparse species present today was Red-necked Grebe, as one spent time diving NW of the terrace. The last locally unusual bird was an Eared Grebe on the baths pool with the Buffles and Ring-neckeds. Two Bottlenose Dolphins added a nice non-avian touch as well. Brian Fitch
