Weekly events: bird watching at McCormick Ranch!

This is an update to a prior post because the lakes are amazing as always! I haven't seen a bald eagle this Spring but there are ducklings and goose-lings out en masse. There are dozens of great blue herons and egrets out right now. It makes for a enjoyable time by the lake. Get out side and enjoy the remaining cooler mornings we have!

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I'm a big time runner and go out along the greenbelt most mornings for a little jaunt. Like many residents, the greenbelt is my favorite place to run. I enjoy seeing other people out exercising and pushing themselves. The trees and grass is a wonderful change from the roads and sidewalks in much of the valley. And, I really enjoy the wildlife. The lakes in the heart of McCormick Ranch have turned into their own ecosystem. Fish jump in the early morning to catch gnats and bugs. Birds like great blue herons and egrets stay still and pull out the little fish with a quick attack. I've even seen a raccoon in the winter months while it was still dark out.

With the temperatures beginning to cool off (even just a few degrees!), it seems like the number of birds by the lakes in the center of McCormick Ranch has just exploded.

On a run late last week, a bald eagle was even perched on a lower tree limb. It was calm and just watching out for a meal. A few other walkers and runners noticed it and stopped to enjoy its magnificence. I don't ever run with a phone or camera unfortunately, so can't share any pictures.

On that same run with the bald eagle sighting, I saw 5 great blue herons, 2 great egrets, and 5 black crowned night herons. There is also a flock of around 100+ geese that is hanging out on the golf course just south of McCormick Parkway. And, of course, are the countless ducks spread throughout the lakes calling it their home.

So, this week, get out there and just enjoy the beauty that is so close to use all. Early morning is probably best as most of the birds will be right on the shore. First light is around 5:30 and they are out then. But, you'll probably be fine looking even an hour or two later.