Virgina Rail and Sora may be present. Red-winged Blackbirds are common. Western bird species such as California Scrub-Jay, Oak Titmouse, Western Bluebird, Acorn Woodpecker, and many more are found in the surrounding oak foothills and chaparral. The area is also good for raptors. Unusual birds found in the basin include Hooded Merganser, Ross's Goose, Chipping Sparrow, and a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher that was present in the winter of 2016.

Moonglow Rd. Basin is a small freshwater pond at the end of Moonglow Rd. in Vandenberg Village South. Exit Highway 1 at Constellation Dr. and continue south. At the school turn right on Jupiter, left on Carlina, right on Stardust, and left on Moonglow, and drive to the end of the road. The pond is located at the bottom of the hill.

The basin pond sits at the edge of the 5,200-acre Burton Mesa Ecological Reserve. Enter the trailhead through a narrow gate in the white fence where you can walk the perimeter of the pond and take a trail into the reserve. The water level varies with seasonal rainfall. Winter and Spring are best.

The public is encouraged to visit and explore the reserve. However, it is important that we all use the reserve respectfully to help preserve this sensitive environment. It is the visitor’s responsibility to understand and follow the rules posted at the trailheads and stay in designated areas. Access for pedestrians and hikers is from sunrise to sunset. Users can walk or hike on designated trails, bring dogs as long as they are retained on a leash of less than 10 feet, and view wildlife at a safe distance. Do not enter the Vandenberg SFB property to the south. Signs are posted on the fence.