Merlin perched on a branch at Cloverdale River Park

Sonoma County Birding: Cloverdale River Park

Miles & Teresa TuffliSonoma County Birding

With 54 Regional Parks in Sonoma County, there’s so much to explore. We visited Cloverdale River Park for the first time recently, and enjoyed a mellow walk along the riparian forest trail.
 
We spied this duck floating in the current of the Russian River – can you tell who this bold patterning belongs to?

Common Merganser male swimming with head submerged underwater in the river at Cloverdale River Park
Who dis?

None other than the beautiful male Common Merganser, of course!

Common Merganser male swimming in the river at Cloverdale River Park
Common Merganser

This lone Double-crested Cormorant sat atop its presumed favorite perch in the afternoon glow.

Double-crested Cormorant perched on a large dead wooden snag in the river at Cloverdale River Park
Double-crested Cormorant

A Hairy Woodpecker announced itself loudly before we spotted it nearby in a tree.

Then, our adrenaline rushed when this gorgeous Merlin flew in and landed just 15 feet from us. Unconcerned with its audience, the falcon performed some calisthenics while keeping a vigilant eye out.

Merlin sticking foot and claw up while perched on a branch at Cloverdale River Park
And, right – 2 – 3 – 4!
Merlin perched on a branch at Cloverdale River Park
Merlin

As the sun’s golden hour descended back near the parking lot, three Lesser Goldfinches blended in seamlessly to the alder catkins upon which they foraged.

Three Lesser Goldfinches foraging in an alder tree at Cloverdale River Park
Lesser Goldfinches

As we departed, a flock of Cedar Waxwings bid us adieu with their high-pitched serenade.

Cedar Waxwing perched in a tree at Cloverdale River Park
Cedar Waxwing

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