The following is a listing of key locations within this sector that may be the
most productive based on past experience. Also noted are species that are hard
to find within the count circle and are possible within the habitat of this
sector. Please don't limit census to just the areas mentioned, but consider
them the most important. Cover as much of the sector as your time and energy
allows. Remember, if your party splits or moves to another sector, please
begin a new field card or start a new checklist. Any constructive comments
about this sector would be appreciated (e.g., too big or small, access
problem, additional key locations). Please note actual areas covered. Also
note contacts for entrance onto private property.
Prefumo Canyon/ See Canyon / Johnson Ranch Trail
This sector is divided into three subsectors, 19A, 19B and 19C.
Sector 19A (Prefumo Canyon) - split at the top/crest of Prefumo and See
Canyons. This subsector includes covering both sides of Prefumo Canyon Road
from the juncture with See Canyon Road down to just west of the trailhead for
Irish Hills Natural Reserve. Habitats include coastal scrub, grasslands
and rocky slopes in the upper canyon areas transitioning into oak woodland and
riparian in the mid and lower canyon areas.
Check grasslands for Mountain bluebird, Horned lark, flycatchers and sparrows.
Check scattered residential landscaping and orchards for hummingbirds,
sapsuckers, and fruit eaters such as tanagers, grosbeaks, and orioles. Listen
and watch for Varied Thrush in dense woodlands.
Sector 19B (See Canyon) - split at the top/crest of Prefumo and See
Canyons. This subsector includes both sides of See Canyon Road as well
as Davis Canyon Road. Habitats include coastal scrub and grasslands in the
upper canyon area transitioning quickly into oak woodland and riparian in the
mid and lower canyon areas. Numerous orchards are found in the lower canyon
area.
Nighttime owling has produced Western Screech, Spotted, Long-eared, Saw-whet,
and Pygmy owls in both canyons.
Check orchards for sapsuckers and fruit eaters such as tanagers, grosbeaks,
and orioles. Listen and watch for Varied Thrush in dense woodlands.
Davis Canyon - check if time allows.
Sector 19C (Johnson Ranch Open Space) - This subsector includes
the Johnson Ranch Open Space and the areas visible from trails on the open
space and the connector trail to the Irish Hills Natural Reserve. Habitats
include coastal scrub, grasslands, oak woodland and riparian. If access
can be obtained from the City of San Luis Obispo, check Forbes Pond located
adjacent to the (private) access road through the open space.
View Sector 19 in a larger map.
