A Relaxing Weekend Hike

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Last weekend, we set out for a peaceful hike along the Sweetwater Reservoir Shoreline Loop Trail near San Diego. This easy 1.8-mile trail follows the edge of the reservoir, offering beautiful water views and great opportunities for birdwatching. The sun was shining, and the conditions were perfect for a leisurely walk in nature.

American Coot

A Picturesque Start

Song Sparrow

As we began our hike, the calm waters of the reservoir stretched out beside us, reflecting the clear blue sky. The trail was quiet, with only a few other hikers and fishermen passing by. Almost immediately, we spotted a Song Sparrow perched on a fence, singing its bright and cheerful tune.

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Warblers and Swallows in Motion

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Along the way, Yellow-rumped Warblers flitted from bush to bush, pausing briefly before darting off again. Higher up, Tree Swallows and Violet-green Swallows zipped through the sky, their acrobatic movements a joy to watch. We stood for a moment, admiring their speed and agility as they chased insects above the water.

Violet-green Swallow

Waterbirds on the Reservoir

Western Grebe

Scanning the reservoir, we saw a few Western Grebes gliding smoothly across the surface. Nearby, groups of American Coots paddled around, their dark bodies contrasting against the shimmering water. A little further along the shoreline, a small group of Least Sandpipers foraged in the mud, their tiny, quick movements making them easy to miss.

Least Sandpipers

A Flash of Yellow and Black

Common Yellowthroat

One of the most exciting moments of the hike was spotting a Common Yellowthroat hopping through the reeds. Its bright yellow body and black mask stood out against the green vegetation. Not far from it, a Black Phoebe perched on a fence post, flicking its tail as it patiently waited for an insect to fly by.

Black Phoebe

Raptors and Flycatchers

Say’s Phoebe

As we walked along the trail, we saw a Say’s Phoebe perched on a branch, calmly surveying the open landscape. Then, out of the corner of our eye, we noticed an American Kestrel soaring overhead. It hovered briefly before diving down—a stunning display of precision and skill.

American Kestrel

Hummingbird Surprise

Anna’s Hummingbird

Near the end of our loop, we were delighted to see an Anna’s Hummingbird darting among the wildflowers. Its iridescent feathers shimmered in the sunlight as it hovered in place, sipping nectar before zipping off at lightning speed. No matter how many times we see hummingbirds, they always feel magical.

Trail View

A Gathering of Cormorants

Double-crested Cormorants

As we neared the final stretch of the trail, we noticed a group of Double-crested Cormorants gathered along the shoreline. Some stood with their wings outstretched, drying in the sun, while others floated lazily on the water. Their sleek black bodies and striking orange faces made them a striking sight to end our hike.

Tree Swallow

A Peaceful Afternoon Outdoors

Trail View

Our hike along the Sweetwater Reservoir Shoreline Loop Trail was a perfect way to spend a sunny weekend afternoon. The combination of scenic water views, gentle trails, and diverse birdlife made it a memorable outing. With so many birds active along the trail, we left feeling refreshed and already looking forward to our next local adventure!

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