Tag: wildlife

🦩 The Pink Ambassadors of Coronado: Flamingos at the Marriott

Right near the entrance of the Marriott Coronado Resort and Spa area series of fresh water ponds where you can a group of flamingos strutting, preening and standing in the shallows. These striking birds — often identified as Chilean flamingos— bring an enchanting splash of color to the tropical landscaping and are a favorite photo opportunity for guests and passersby alike.

While Coronado’s golden beaches and sparkling bay views are a draw in themselves, the flamingos offer something extra: a touch of whimsy and wonder. They’re known to hang out right by the Lagoon area accessible from the Bayshore Bikeway, so even if you aren’t staying at the hotel, a quiet stroll along the waterfront could lead to a charming flamingo sighting.

📸 Why Visitors Love Them

  • Iconic photo ops: Kids and adults alike pause to snap pictures of the elegant birds — their vibrant pink feathers make a lovely contrast against the deep greens of the resort landscaping and the blue backdrop of San Diego Bay.
  • Unexpected wildlife moment: It’s not every day you come across flamingos in Southern California, so they feel like a special little secret of Coronado.
  • Accessible to all: You don’t need a room key to enjoy the flamingos — curious visitors can spot them from nearby public paths near the ferry landing and waterfront promenade.

If you are not a guest of the hotel or do not want to pay the resort parking fee you will have to find street parking in front of the hotel along Glorietta Boulevard. Park south of the resort at Tidelands Park and walk north along the Bay Shore Bike Path. Or lastly park north of the resort ant the Coronado Ferry Landing Parking lot and walk south along the bay shore bike path.

The freshwater ponds are located to the right of the main hotel entrance on the south side of the building.

Flamingos in San Diego Bay: Rare Sightings Along a Familiar Shoreline

Flamingos in San Diego Bay: Rare Sightings Along a Familiar Shoreline

San Diego Bay is home to more than 300 bird species throughout the year, but flamingos are not among the region’s native wildlife. Still, on rare occasions, observers have reported flamingos along the bay’s shallow edges, drawing attention from birders and curious onlookers alike.

These sightings, while unusual, are not without explanation. Over the weekend I was driving southbound on State Route 75 from Coronado to Imperial Beach when I spotted 2 pink dots off to my left in the marsh shallows. I turned around in Imperial Beach, headed north to the Bike Path parking lot accessible from NB 75. And walk north for about 15min to find the two flamingos about 200 yards off shore. It was High Tide at the time which flooded the shallow marsh and coaxed the flamingos and other shore birds closer to shore.

Not Native, but Occasionally Present

Flamingos do not naturally occur in Southern California. Their typical range includes the Caribbean, parts of South America, Africa, and the Galápagos Islands. Experts generally agree that flamingos seen in San Diego County are likely birds that escaped or dispersed from captive populations rather than true wild migrants.

In the mid-20th century, flamingos were commonly kept in open-air zoo exhibits and private collections. Some individuals were able to fly beyond their enclosures and settle into nearby wetlands. A small number adapted to local conditions and remained in Southern California for extended periods, occasionally appearing in bays, lagoons, and salt ponds.

Habitat Conditions in San Diego Bay

Despite its urban setting, San Diego Bay contains habitat features that can support flamingos. Shallow waters, mudflats, and salt ponds provide feeding opportunities similar to those found in the species’ native environments. Flamingos feed on algae, brine shrimp, and other small invertebrates, filtering food from the water using specialized bills.

The bay’s salt works and managed wetlands, particularly in the southern portion of the bay, offer stable water levels and limited wave action—conditions suitable for wading birds that rely on calm, shallow areas.

Public Interest and Documentation

When flamingos appear in the bay, the sightings are typically well documented. Photographs and field notes are often shared through birding networks and community science platforms, where experts review and confirm observations. These records help distinguish between escaped birds, long-term residents, and misidentified species.

While flamingos attract attention, wildlife officials generally discourage close approaches. Maintaining distance reduces stress on the birds and minimizes the risk of disturbance to surrounding wildlife.

A Reminder of the Bay’s Ecological Value

Though flamingos are not part of San Diego Bay’s native ecosystem, their presence highlights the importance of coastal wetlands. The same habitats that occasionally support a flamingo also sustain migratory shorebirds, waterfowl, and endangered species year-round.

Even rare and unexpected sightings underscore the bay’s role as a critical refuge in a heavily developed region—one that continues to support a wide range of avian life.

Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge: Life Thriving at the Edge of the Desert

Stretching along the southern shore of the Salton Sea, the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is one of Southern California’s most surprising and important wildlife destinations. What looks like a stark desert landscape at first glance quickly reveals itself as a vital oasis for birds, mammals, and migrating wildlife traveling the Pacific Flyway.

A Refuge Born from Agriculture and Conservation

The refuge was established in 1930, originally to provide habitat for migratory birds drawn to agricultural runoff in the Imperial Valley. In 1998, it was renamed in honor of Sonny Bono, the late congressman and entertainer who played a key role in expanding and protecting public lands in California.

Today, the refuge spans more than 37,000 acres of managed wetlands, desert scrub, and agricultural fields. These habitats work together to support wildlife in a region where natural water sources are scarce.

A Birding Hotspot of International Importance

If you love birds, this place is legendary. More than 400 bird species have been recorded here, making it one of the most significant birding locations in the western United States.

Depending on the season, visitors may spot:

  • Snow geese and Ross’s geese by the thousands
  • White-faced ibis and long-legged shorebirds
  • Burrowing owls tucked into desert edges
  • Raptors like northern harriers and peregrine falcons

Winter is especially spectacular, when migratory birds arrive in massive numbers and transform the refuge into a living, moving landscape.

Exploring the Refuge

The refuge is very visitor-friendly, with options for both casual sightseeing and serious wildlife observation.

Highlights include:

  • Auto tour routes that loop through wetlands and fields
  • Walking trails for quiet wildlife viewing
  • Photography pullouts perfect for sunrise and sunset light

The flat terrain and open skies make it an ideal spot for photography, especially when the mountains reflect off the water or flocks of birds fill the horizon.

Why This Refuge Matters

Despite ongoing environmental challenges facing the Salton Sea, the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge remains a critical lifeline for wildlife. Carefully managed water flows and habitat restoration efforts help sustain species that depend on this stopover during long migrations.

The refuge is also a powerful reminder that even altered landscapes can become essential ecosystems when conservation and stewardship come together.

Planning Your Visit

The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is located near Niland, California, and is open year-round during daylight hours. Cooler months—from late fall through early spring—offer the most comfortable weather and the highest concentration of wildlife.

Whether you’re a birder, photographer, or simply curious about one of California’s most unusual natural areas, the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge is a place that challenges expectations and rewards patience.

Bird Checklist: Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge supports hundreds of bird species throughout the year. This checklist highlights commonly seen and notable birds, especially during peak migration and winter months.

Waterfowl

  • Snow Goose
  • Ross’s Goose
  • Canada Goose
  • Northern Pintail
  • American Wigeon
  • Green-winged Teal
  • Cinnamon Teal
  • Northern Shoveler
  • Ruddy Duck

Shorebirds

  • American Avocet
  • Black-necked Stilt
  • Long-billed Dowitcher
  • Marbled Godwit
  • Willet
  • Western Sandpiper
  • Least Sandpiper
  • Killdeer

Wading Birds

  • Great Blue Heron
  • Great Egret
  • Snowy Egret
  • Cattle Egret
  • White-faced Ibis

Gulls & Terns

  • Ring-billed Gull
  • California Gull
  • Laughing Gull
  • Caspian Tern
  • Forster’s Tern

Raptors

  • Northern Harrier
  • Red-tailed Hawk
  • Swainson’s Hawk
  • American Kestrel
  • Peregrine Falcon
  • Bald Eagle (occasional but increasing)

Owls

  • Burrowing Owl
  • Great Horned Owl

Desert & Upland Birds

  • Gambel’s Quail
  • Loggerhead Shrike
  • Greater Roadrunner
  • Horned Lark

Songbirds & Others

  • Yellow-headed Blackbird
  • Red-winged Blackbird
  • Marsh Wren
  • Savannah Sparrow
  • Say’s Phoebe

Birding tip: Winter mornings offer the best light and bird activity. Bring binoculars even if you’re just driving the auto loop—you’ll be surprised how close the birds can be.

Ramona Hawk Watch: A Front-Row Seat to Southern California’s Raptor Migration

https://www.wildlife-research.org/hawkwatch

If you love wildlife, big skies, and birds of prey, the Ramona Grasslands Hawk Watch in San Diego East County offers a free, up-close way to experience some of North America’s most majestic raptors in winter. Set against the sweeping open landscapes of the Ramona Grasslands Preserve, this seasonal program draws both casual nature lovers and serious birders alike.

What Is Hawk Watch?

Upcoming 2026 Saturdays 10am to 12pm

January 3rd, 10,17, 24,31

February 7,14,21, 28

Ramona Grasslands Hawk Watch is a free weekly wildlife education event hosted by the Wildlife Research Institute (WRI) most Saturdays in January and February at Begent Ranch in Ramona. While it shares its name with traditional migration “hawk watches,” this program is more than just counting birds — it’s a hands-on learning experience for all ages

Hawk Watch is an informative educational Biologist Talk and Q& with Falconry or ambassador raptors for you to see up close and personal. The seated program lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. After the presentation there is an option for additional roadside observations of wild raptors and other wildlife including bald eagle nest where you will drive your own car less than 2 miles on paved roads and come and go at your leisure.

Biologists and local expert volunteer observers will help you spot and identify birds and show them to you through our high-powered professional telescopes. In the event of rain, we will still have the educational program inside the barn, but the usual falconry flight displays will not occur in the barn. There is no hiking portion of Hawk Watch, but we recommend wearing sturdy shoes for uneven terrain and going on your own to the nearby Ramona Grassland Preserve hiking trail after the program. Hawk Watch is wheelchair accessible, and we recommend using one if walking on uneven terrain could be a safety hazard for you. We hope you can make it!

Local Residents Find Space to Grow at the Tijuana River Community Garden

The Tijuana River Community Garden, established 2002, has become one of the most active green spaces in the South Bay, offering residents a place to grow food, strengthen community ties, and cultivate a shared connection to the land. The site of the community garden lies in the Tijuana River Valley Regional Park (TRV), a region that historically hosted agricultural operations, including vegetable farms, dairies, and ranches. Over time, many farms in the valley experienced floods, soil disruption, or were abandoned.

The Tijuana River Community Garden, established 2002, has become one of the most active green spaces in the South Bay, offering residents a place to grow food, strengthen community ties, and cultivate a shared connection to the land. The site of the community garden lies in the Tijuana River Valley Regional Park (TRV), a region that historically hosted agricultural operations, including vegetable farms, dairies, and ranches. Over time, many farms in the valley experienced floods, soil disruption, or were abandoned.

The commercial success of large-scale agriculture in the valley was severely curtailed by flooding and, most critically, by the ongoing transboundary pollution issue. Beginning in the mid-20th century and accelerating rapidly due to Tijuana’s population growth and inadequate infrastructure, the Tijuana River became a major conduit for raw sewage, industrial waste, and sediment.

2025 brought renewed urgency around environmental issues in the surrounding valley. The region has been affected by a persistent sewage and pollution crisis — runoff and untreated wastewater from across the border entering the valley, leading to toxic contamination in water, soil, and air. As a result — and citing “health and safety of gardeners, farmers and staff,” and “increased flooding and related challenges in recent years” — Resource Conservation District of Greater San Diego County (RCDGSDC), a non-profit/quasi-governmental organization tasked with environmental conservation projects locally announced it would end its lease and management of the garden in October 2025.

In November 2025, the county selected Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center (OGLC), a nonprofit based in National City, as the garden’s interim operator for up to one year. The appointment of Olivewood Gardens as interim operator provides continuity for now, but long-term viability depends on final negotiations, environmental remediation, and the ability to ensure safe operation.

Lindo Lake County Park: Lakeside’s Natural & Community Haven

Lindo Lake County Park is open from sunrise to sunset for public use. The park is approximately 55 acres in size and features a skate park, children’s playground, softball field, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, and open spaces. There are roughly 1.5 miles of ADA-friendly, multi-use paths, including a popular loop trail around the lake that’s about 1.2 miles long — perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, or pushing a stroller.

With water basins, wetlands, and lakeside habitat, the park attracts a variety of waterfowl and birds — a draw for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Areas

Leashed dogs are welcome around the lake. Many locals use the loop trail for daily dog walks.

🐦 Bird-Watching Tips

  • Bring binoculars for the east basin — that’s where most waterfowl gather.
  • Look for:
    • Great blue herons
    • Snowy egrets
    • Cormorants
    • Mallards
    • Canadian geese
    • Red-winged blackbirds
  • Early morning is the best time for spotting and photography.

🐦 Pro Tip:

Stand quietly near the shallow inlets — birds often forage close to shore.

Oasis Camel Dairy: Ramona’s Most Unexpected Adventure

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to meet a camel up close—right here in San Diego County—there’s a place where curiosity turns into delight. Tucked into the rolling hills of Ramona, Oasis Camel Dairy is one of Southern California’s quirkiest and most memorable rural attractions. Part farm, part sanctuary, and part hands-on learning experience, it’s the kind of place that sticks with you long after you’ve brushed the camel dust off your shoes.

A Day at Oasis Camel Dairy: A Unique Animal Adventure in Ramona, California

What Is Oasis Camel Dairy?

Oasis Camel Dairy is a small, charming farm known for its herd of dromedary camels, gentle giants with expressive faces and plenty of personality. The dairy also produces camel-milk skincare products, hosts open farm days, offers camel rides, and gives visitors a hands-on glimpse into the world of camel care.While camels might seem like animals you’d only meet on an overseas vacation, this Ramona farm makes the experience feel surprisingly personal, accessible, and welcoming.

The Experience: Meeting the Camels

The moment you arrive, you’ll notice how relaxed, open, and friendly the atmosphere is. The camels often gather along the fences, curious about new visitors. During open farm hours, you can:

  • Feed the camels (watch your fingers—they’re enthusiastic eaters!)Pet them and learn about their behavior and history Watch demonstrations on camel training and milking Ask questions—the staff genuinely loves sharing stories and tips

Kids tend to be mesmerized by how tall and gentle the camels are, while adults appreciate the peaceful vibe and wide-open scenery.

Try a Camel Ride

One of the highlights of visiting Oasis Camel Dairy is the chance to ride a camel. These are short, guided rides perfect for first-timers. You’ll mount from a raised platform, settle into the saddle, and enjoy a slow, smooth loop around the training area.It’s a fun mix of novelty and nostalgia—like riding a piece of history.

More Animals to See

Beyond camels, the farm is full of friendly faces:

  • Mini sheepSpotted sheepColorful birdsFarm dogsOccasional baby animals depending on the season

It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to wander slowly, snap photos, and enjoy the simplicity of farm life.

Don’t Skip the Gift Shop

The on-site shop is small but full of treasures. Oasis Camel Dairy is known for its camel milk skincare line, including:

  • Handcrafted soapsLotion barsCreams and balmsBath itemsEven camel-milk chocolate

Everything is made in small batches, making it great for souvenir shopping.

Why You’ll Love This Day Trip

Oasis Camel Dairy offers a refreshing break from the typical San Diego itinerary:

  • It’s unique—how often do you get to hang out with camels in California?It’s quiet and peaceful, surrounded by rural hills and open skyIt’s fun for all ages—kids, couples, families, solo travelersYou’ll leave with stories, pictures, and maybe a new favorite farm animal

If you’re exploring Ramona wineries or driving out toward Julian, this stop fits perfectly into a scenic day trip.

Travel Tips for Visiting

  • Check the schedule: Open farm days rotate monthly.Wear comfortable shoes: Paths are dirt and gravel.Bring water and sunscreen—Ramona gets warm.Arrive early for rides: They’re popular and sometimes limited.Expect a rustic setting: The charm is in its simplicity.

    •  Checkout their website for events, open farm dates, fees and more

    https://cameldairy.com/home

    Final Thoughts

    Oasis Camel Dairy is one of those rare places that surprises you in the best way. It manages to be educational, relaxing, and genuinely charming—all while giving you a chance to meet animals you’d never expect to find in Southern California. Whether you’re planning a family outing or searching for a unique travel story, this Ramona farm is well worth the trip.

    🦁 Wild Encounters: Exploring the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

    San Diego Zoo Safari Park isn’t your typical zoo. Nestled in the rolling hills of Escondido, California, this 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary brings you face-to-face with animals in environments that mirror their natural habitats — wide, open, and wild.

    Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a family planning a weekend outing, or a wildlife enthusiast, the Safari Park offers something for everyone. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience.

    What Makes the Safari Park Unique?

    The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the expansive cousin of the world-famous San Diego Zoo. While both are operated by the nonprofit San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the Safari Park is more focused on large-scale conservation efforts and giving animals room to roam.

    Unlike traditional zoos with enclosures, the Safari Park features massive savanna-like habitats where giraffes, rhinos, antelope, and even African elephants share the land — much like they would in the wild.

    Top Attractions & Experiences

    🐘 1. Africa Tram

    One of the park’s most popular attractions, the Africa Tram is an open-air guided tour through the African Plains. You’ll ride through herds of animals roaming freely, with expert narration providing insight into conservation efforts, animal behavior, and habitat restoration.

    🦒 2. Caravan Safari (Add-On Experience)

    Want to get even closer? Book a Caravan Safari, where you’ll board a safari truck and feed giraffes right from your hand. It’s an unforgettable experience that brings the wild within reach.

    🐅 3. Tiger Trail

    The lush, forested Tiger Trail lets you observe majestic Sumatran tigers up close. Designed to mimic their native habitat, the trail winds through waterfalls, observation decks, and glass-viewing areas — perfect for snapping a few memorable photos.

    🦏 4. Walkabout Australia

    This exhibit transports visitors down under, featuring kangaroos, wallabies, cassowaries, and other Australian wildlife. You can even walk through open areas where kangaroos might hop right past you.

    🧒 5. Play Areas and Animal Encounters

    Families will love the Savanna Cool Zone, a water play area for kids, and the Animal Encounters where you can meet smaller ambassador animals. There’s also the Petting Kraal, where kids can brush goats and sheep.

    Conservation at Its Core

    The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is more than entertainment — it’s a hub of conservation science. The Nikolaus Nature Preserve, Rhino Rescue Center, and Frozen Zoo are just a few examples of the groundbreaking work being done to save endangered species around the world.

    Their motto, “We fight extinction,” isn’t just a tagline — it’s a mission backed by research, education, and action.

    Tips for Visiting

    • Plan ahead: Tickets can sell out during peak times. Buy online and check for available add-on safaris.
    • Dress comfortably: You’ll be walking a lot. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a hat, and stay hydrated.
    • Beat the heat: Mornings and late afternoons are best for animal activity and cooler temps.
    • Go all-in: If your budget allows, splurge on a behind-the-scenes tour or animal encounter — they’re worth every penny.

    Final Thoughts

    The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Southern California. It’s where nature, adventure, and conservation come together to create a day you won’t forget.

    So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready to go on safari — no passport required.

    Robb Field Loop Walkway: Scenic Riverside Path in Ocean Beach

    There are multiple parking options along the trail. Beginning on the western end of the trail at the Ocean Beach Dog Beach Parking Lot and few hundred yards east along the Robb Field Parking Lot

    Tucked along the San Diego River in Ocean Beach, the Robb Field Loop Walkway is a hidden gem for walkers, joggers, and cyclists who want a peaceful route with a touch of coastal charm. This easy, flat loop circles the athletic fields of Robb Field and connects to the scenic San Diego River Trail, offering a refreshing mix of open park space, waterfront views, and breezy ocean air.

    A Walk with a View

    The loop itself is about 1.5 miles, making it the perfect distance for a quick walk, a warm-up jog, or even a leisurely dog stroll. As you circle around, you’ll see wide green lawns filled with soccer players, skateboarders, and families enjoying the day. Look west and the path opens up to the San Diego River estuary, where herons, egrets, and osprey can often be spotted fishing in the calm waters.

    Connection to the San Diego River Trail

    One of the best parts of the Robb Field Loop is that it connects seamlessly to the San Diego River Trail, a multi-use path stretching inland for miles. If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can head east along the river toward Mission Valley or west toward the Ocean Beach Dog Beach area.

    Family & Fitness Friendly

    The walkway is paved and flat, making it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes. Along the loop you’ll also find exercise stations, benches, and shaded spots—perfect for breaking up your walk with a stretch or water break. Since Robb Field is also home to a skate park, ball fields, and tennis courts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy before or after the walk.

    Best Time to Visit

    Morning and evening are especially beautiful times to stroll the loop. Early risers will enjoy calm air and bird activity along the estuary, while sunset brings soft colors over the river and the silhouettes of palm trees along the horizon.

    A Local Favorite

    While many visitors head straight to the beach, locals know Robb Field Loop Walkway as a quieter spot for exercise, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It’s not a strenuous hike, but rather a slice of everyday San Diego life with its mix of nature, recreation, and community.

    👉 Tip for photographers: Bring your camera for the golden hour. The estuary, palm trees, and distant Ocean Beach Pier create postcard-worthy shots.

    🦅 Ospreys of Shelter Island: San Diego’s Coastal Raptors

    If you’ve ever strolled along the waterfront on Shelter Island and looked up to see a large bird hovering gracefully above the bay, chances are you’ve spotted an osprey. Known as the “fish hawk,” this striking bird of prey has made a comfortable home here in San Diego’s maritime backyard.

    A Natural Fisherman in an Urban Setting

    Shelter Island offers the perfect blend of natural habitat and human-made infrastructure that ospreys have come to favor. With calm bay waters rich in fish and an abundance of tall structures like light poles, boat masts, and channel markers, ospreys have carved out a niche among the marinas and piers. It’s not uncommon to spot their bulky stick nests perched high above the docks, often near the Shelter Island Launch Ramp or around America’s Cup Harbor.

    A Front-Row Seat to Nature

    Watching an osprey hunt is a thrilling experience. These raptors soar high, scanning the water with laser-sharp vision. Then, in an instant, they dive feet-first into the bay, emerging with a wriggling fish clutched in their powerful talons. It’s a daily drama that plays out just steps from the sidewalk — and a reminder that even in the heart of the city, nature thrives.

    Season of the Osprey

    While ospreys can be seen in San Diego year-round, their breeding season typically runs from March to August. During these months, you might see pairs working together to build or repair nests, calling out with sharp whistles, or feeding their young. If you’re lucky, you might spot fledglings learning to fly — a heartening sight that signals the continued health of our coastal ecosystem.

    A Conservation Comeback

    Ospreys weren’t always so easy to spot. In the mid-20th century, their numbers plummeted due to pesticide use, especially DDT. But since the ban of such chemicals and the protection of nesting sites, osprey populations have rebounded across the U.S., including right here in San Diego Bay. Their presence on Shelter Island is a quiet conservation success story.

    Where to Look

    For the best osprey-watching:

    • Walk along the Shelter Island shoreline promenade near the boat launches.
    • Look up at tall poles or navigation beacons — nesting sites are often quite visible.
    • Early morning and late afternoon are great times to see them hunting.

    Bring your binoculars, a camera, and a sense of wonder. Whether you’re a birder, photographer, or casual observer, spotting an osprey in action is always a memorable moment.