Turri Road* gracefully meanders over low hills to the Los Osos Valley agricultural area. The road is narrow with few areas to park. With several attempts I managed to back off the road into an unused overgrown lane that leads to private property (above). Willows were dense, a brushy field on the east, open fields to the north.
I had been birding about 20 minutes; experienced an excellent view of Mr. and Mrs. Blue Grosbeak, and a Common Yellowthroat; identified the distant chatter of a Western Kingbird and the persistent song of a Black-headed Grosbeak, but that was it. I was about ready to try another location when one of the best birders in the county, drove up.
Immediately, and I do mean immediately, she spotted a Warbling Vireo, Swainson's Thrush, Ash-throated Flycatcher (below) on a twig of a Coyote Bush, and a Lazuli Bunting by the edge of the road. Her speed of identification was a sight to behold. Unfortunately, she was pressed for time and left after a few minutes. Needless to say, I was delighted at my good fortune.
Continued on down the Road. Perched on barbed wire fencing were two Cassin's Kingbirds, a Lark Sparrow, and Say's Phoebe. In the fields - Meadow Lark, Red-winged Blackbird and Western Bluebird. For a complete list see bird list at end of blog. Once again this peaceful country road proved to be a birding goldmine. As soon as we get a sunny morning, I will return for another look at these beautiful little darlings.
* Turri Road is located on the Central Coast of California between the Communities of Morro Bay and Los Osos.
Bird List: American Kestrel, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Black-headed Grosbeak, Blue Grosbeak, Cassin's Kingbird, Western Kingbird, Common Yellowthroat, House Finch, Lazuli Bunting, Meadowlark, Pacific-slope Flycatcher, Red-tailed Hawk, Song Sparrow, Swainson's Thrush, Turkey Vulture, Warbling Vireo, Western Bluebird, Wilson's Warbler
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