Birding Outings: South San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge and the South Bay Salt Works

Sunday, February 18, 2024, 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM
South San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge and the South Bay Salt Works
Google Maps: South Bay Salt Works, GPS: 32.5998, -117.0921
Leaders: Peter Thomas, Chris Staurovsky, John Bruin, and others.

The South Bay Salt Works has over 20 salt ponds used to extract salt from seawater by evaporation. This area is normally closed to the public, except for once-per-month guided walks led by San Diego Audubon docents during the bird non-breeding fall and winter months. We will discuss the history of the salt works and the process of obtaining salt from nature. The focus
will be on wintering shorebirds, gulls, terns, and herons, but we will also be on the lookout for Peregrine Falcons, Belding’s Savannah Sparrows, and the Little Stint. N.B.:

Two groups:

A.) “The Tortoises”. This will be a slower, more leisurely walk that will focus on the common
wintering shorebirds and residents. Great for photography.

B.) “The Hares” This will be a slightly longer walk that will move at more rapid pace. Both groups will have the opportunity to
view “Stint Island” the small spit where the Stint can be seen, but there are NO guarantees. Be
sure to designate which group that you prefer – A or B. Capped at 12 spots per group to
insure the best experience for all. No restrooms or other facilities. No early exits as the gate to the Refuge will be locked after our entry.

At the trailhead, please know which group for which you registered.

Directions: Take Highway 5 to Chula Vista and exit on Palomar St. Go west to the T- intersection at Bay Blvd. and turn left. Drive .3 mile and park on the right outside the gated fence.