The gray smooth-hound shark (Mustelus californicus) is a common small shark native to the Californias. They grow up to 45โ and feed on crabs, worms and small fish. Their preferred habitats are shallow coastal areas including bays and estuaries. Theyโve been particularly active in Magnolia Marsh this week, taking advantage of our large schools of small fish! These are also one of the fascinating species of fish that give live birth!
#sharks #biology #ecology #habitatconservation #californiawildlife #wildlife #huntingtonbeach #viviparous #estuary #saltmarsh #foodweb #naturepreserve
Upper Magnolia Marsh is a small area within our marsh complex to the north of Magnolia Marsh. This small but mighty area was our most recent major restoration project during which we removed abandoned oil pipelines and added channels to restore tidal flow. As we closely monitor the area to measure success of the restoration and make necessary adjustments - you can imagine our delight in seeing Least Terns hunting for fish in the newly restored marsh! ๐ค They are hustling to keep their babies fed over at the least tern preserve across the street!
#endangeredspecies #californialeasttern #habitatrestoration #conservation #huntingtonbeach
On June 4, five captive bred light-footed Ridgewayโs rails were released into Magnolia Marsh!
The rails were bred by @thelivingcoast and San Diego Wildlife Alliance. We have been working hard to bolster the plant populations that these endangered rails depend on, including CA cordgrass and spiny rush. Itโs so exciting to see these habitats come back to life.
Four additional rails were released just up the road at Bolsa Chica! We hope all nine rails thrive here at their new homes in the Huntington Beach wetlands!
#conservation #wetlands #coastalwetlands #saltmarsh #endangeredspecies #ridgewaysrail #wildlife #huntingtonbeach
Tonightโs sunset at the Brookhurst Marsh. Turn on the volume to hear the birds chattering on the waterโฆ so pretty.
