Birdwatch at San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, California

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The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge protects a rich diversity of endangered, threatened, migratory, and native species and their habitats in the midst of a highly urbanized coastal environment. The Refuge encompasses approximately 2,620 acres of land and water in and around San Diego Bay. The Refuge consists of the Sweetwater Marsh and South San Diego Bay Units. What remains of San Diego Bay’s historic coastal salt marsh and intertidal mudflat habitat is preserved within these two Refuge Units. San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to a wide variety of birds, including numerous waterfowl, shorebirds, and other species. Common birds include the Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, Snowy Egret, Great Egret, and Mallard. It is also a critical habitat for threatened and endangered species like the Light-footed Ridgway's Rail and Belding's Savannah Sparrow. The refuge is a key stopover for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway. This refuge has two distinct areas, Sweetwater March Unit and South San Diego Bay Unit. You can enjoy some of the most beautiful and unique wildlife in San Diego Bay. Each area is connected by the Bayshore Bikeway. Whether you are riding your bike, the bus, or driving, accessing the refuge is easy. You just have to know where to go! Sweetwater Marsh provides habitat for four endangered or threatened species, including light-footed rail. It is also the only place in the United States where yerba reuma, a member of the heath family, grows naturally. More than 200 species of birds have been recorded on the refuge. Monthly tours of the South San Diego Bay refuge are available to the public as well as tours during the wintertime led by the San Diego Bird Alliance. Email info@sandiegobirdalliance.org for more information.

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