Park behind the Casino (P). To the west (away from the Casino) is a small lake that has a variety of ducks and herons. To the south of the lake is an open field (1) that contains sparrows, woodpeckers, and corvids. A White-winged Dove was once observed in this area. Walking the perimeter of this field along the wetlands can produce a variety of waterfowl as well as chickadees and sparrows. Return to the lake and follow the dirt road north. The marshes along the west side of the road contains pheasant, wrens, sparrows, blackbirds, and grackles. Virginia Rail have been heard in this marsh. One hundred yards north of the lake (2), a trail goes to the left (west) between two sections of the marsh. During high water years, this trail may be flooded. Take the trail, which goes through some willow thickets, looking for coots, sparrows, and wrens. Once through the marsh bear to the left scanning the field to the right and the marsh to the left. The trail leads to a levee (3) that follows the Rio Grande. At this point an Inca Dove was observed one fall. Turn right (north) and follow the levee. All areas with undergrowth and trees should be scanned for chickadees, towhees, sparrows, and in the summer for flycatchers. There are many places where one can get to the river bank. Look for shorebirds and ducks in the proper seasons. A hundred yards up the levee is a small lake on the right. This lake has been the home for Wood Duck for a number of years. Other surprises around this lake have been a Rusty Blackbird and a Golden-crowned Sparrow. Continue north until you can observe the river flowing under a highway bridge. Retrace your steps to the junction around the lake (4) and take the east side trail. This area is especially good for sparrows. Return to the junction (2) and either return to your vehicle (P) or take the trail north.
