DeLaveaga

Map

    This large park has a golf course, a “disc golf” course, playing fields and picnic areas, and large stands of Monterey pine, eucalyptus, and native live oak along with mixed evergreen forest. Take North Branciforte Ave from Water St in Santa Cruz, turning left on Upper Park Rd to the golf course. Park and bird where the road enters an area of live oaks beyond the clubhouse, and also in the pines near the end of the road that goes right after you pass the clubhouse. Look for sapsuckers (especially in acacias) and other birds of the conifer forest (including wintering Hermit Warbler and Red Crossbill (during irruption years). Places where this park abuts Branciforte Dr are also often worth birding, especially in spring migration and the nesting season (weekdays or early morning on weekends are best). From Water St in Santa Cruz take Market St north; this becomes Branciforte Dr north of Hwy 1. Access to the park occurs at 1.1, 1.8, 2.1, and 2.3 miles from Water St. All these places lead to forest areas, and the last three provide birding along Branciforte Creek.