The following is a listing of key locations within this section that may be the most productive based on past experience. Also noted are species that are hard to find within the count circle and are possible within the habitat of this section. Please don't 1imit censussing to just the areas mentioned, but consider them the most important. Cover as much of the section as your time and energy allows. Remember, if your party splits or moves to another section, please begin a new field card. Any constructive comments about this section would be appreciated (i.e. too big or small, access problem, other key locations). Please note actual areas covered. Also note contacts for entrance onto private property.

Prefumo Creek / Froom Ranch / Irish Hills Natural Area

Walk creek from Madonna Road to Hwy 101 and from Los Osos Valley Road to section boundary. Census as much of golf course as possible. Check open fields and crop lands for raptors and sparrows. Check eucalyptus groves for hummingbirds, warblers, tanagers and orioles. Check residential areas with mature plantings and feeders. Check parking lot around Costco food court for Great-tailed Grackle and Froom Ranch marsh and ponds between the Home Depot Center and Calle Joaquin for waterfowl and Wilson’s Snipe.

The Irish Hills Natural Preserve in not within the map boundaries, but is considered part of the section. The trailhead can be reached by turning west on Madonna Road from Los Osos Valley Road and driving to the road end. Park on the street and walk up the dirt road to the trailhead. Watch for Varied Thrush.

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