Westlake

Map

     Despite its suburban setting, Westlake Park in Santa Cruz, with a pond surrounded by lawn and scattered trees, has a variety of winter ducks and other waterbirds. Ring-necked Duck, Canvasback, Bufflehead, and Ruddy Duck are winter regulars. A wintering male Tufted Duck in 2001-2004 put this spot on the birding map. In spring, nesting Hooded Orioles, many swallows and Vaux’s Swift keep this park a place worth visiting. From High St (two blocks east of the main UCSC entrance), go south on Moore St, then left on Bradley St to the pond.