March 8, 2016 - The California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (CDFW) Los Banos Wildlife Area recently opened a new birding trail. The trail will annually reopen on the third weekend in February and remain open each year through mid-June.
The Wildlife Conservation Board provided funding for the 2.5 miles of paths that wind through six habitat types — seasonal wetlands, old growth riparian, restored riparian, sloughs, managed uplands and irrigated pasture. At this time of the year, birders can expect to see numerous species of ducks, geese, wading birds and song birds. Each area contains interpretive signs in both English and Spanish that feature bird illustrations donated by artist John Muir Laws.
The trail is located at the northeast corner of the refuge, near parking lot No. 11 — the nearest street address is 7985 S. Wolfsen Road, Los Banos (93635). The Salt Slough check station adjacent to the trail contains additional parking and public restrooms.
Access to the trail is free to those possessing a valid hunting, fishing or trapping license. All other visitors 16 years of age or older must be in possession of a CDFW Lands Pass, which is available for purchase online or at license agents or CDFW sales offices.
For more information, please contact the Los Banos Wildlife Area at (209) 826-0463.
Source: CDFW
