A Slide Ranch Visit
Many words come to mind when I think of the wildlife at Slide Ranch: plentiful, beautiful, and dynamic, to name a few. But to me, one word captures it perfectly: stellar. I’m Asher Leopold, a camper at Slide Ranch’s Fall Harvest Family Campout this past October. I am a wildlife enthusiast that especially loves birds. I took full advantage of the Ranch's birding opportunities, including spotting iridescent Hummingbirds and Great Horned Owls (pictured). During the fall, White and Golden Crowned Sparrows can be seen hopping in the bushes and camping sites. If you prefer birds of prey, Red-Tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, American Kestrels, and even theoccasional Osprey and Golden Eagle can be seen around the area. In addition to land birds, the ranch also has many sea birds. Brown Pelicans by the hundreds can be seen fishing offshore and roosting in colonies on boulders, in addition to other species, like Terns, Gulls, and Cormorants.
I could go on and on about birds (have you noticed?), but there’s so much to appreciate about the ranch itself; you can pet and groom goats and sheep, while chickens and ducks can be held. A former dairy farm, there are now beautiful organic gardens all around. The scenery is marvelous and open to the public, inclusive of access to tidepools and the beach.
Perhaps most meaningful are the connections with people; everyone is so caring and kind.There is no lack of knowledge to be gained from any one person, everyone is always included, and friends can be made far and wide. All in all, it is the most wonderful time. Slide Ranch brings animals, nature, and people into one place, creating magical memories to last a lifetime.
Asher Leopold is a 7th grader who lives in Berkeley. He is an aspiring National Geographic photographer who loves wildlife. In 2026, he will be a youth docent at Slide Ranch, leading bird walks and fostering a love of nature in other people. Photos by Asher - Left: Great Horned Owl, Right: Brown Pelicans.
Join us at one of our 2 upcoming Family Farm Days or at any one of our upcoming events.
