We should find a good variety of wintering ducks and gulls at Lake Merritt. Then we will then drive to Arrowhead Marsh for the high tide around 11:15 AM; the rising tide should flush out rails. The area is also good for shorebirds and more wintering ducks on the estuary. A visit to Garretson Point will finish our trip.  Carpool leaves at 8 am from El Nido Ranch Road. Or, meet at 8:30 AM in parking lot by Lake Merritt. Take SR 24 to Oakland and I-980, take Grand Avenue exit and turn left on Grand. Enter park at Children’s Fairyland (entry fee), and follow road around to parking lot entrance on right between boathouse and aviary. Bring lunch and drinks.  Leader: Sandy Ritchie, 925-685-8048.  Category 1. 

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