Activities

San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1974 to conserve, restore and protect habitat for endangered species and migratory birds that use the estuary for resting, feeding or as a wintering stop during their Pacific Flyway migration.  Fall, winter and spring offer the best opportunities to observe concentrations of migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, wading birds and raptors.

Dawn and dusk are the best times to see wildlife, while the tidal cycle influences when shorebirds can be seen probing intertidal mudflat. Ducks feed in shallow water, and osprey, terns, pelicans and cormorants dive for fish. 

Raptors, such as red-tailed hawks, white-tailed kites, northern harriers and American Kestrels, are abundant from November through February. They can be seen hunting over the refuge’s marshes and on adjacent agricultural fields. By May, most of these migrants move north to nest, while residents and visitors from the south nest on the refuge. 

Nesting species on the refuge include black-necked stilt, mallard, and gadwall. Migrant nesters from the south include Caspian terns and barn swallows. A sharp observer may spot a peregrine falcon pursuing a shorebird on the edge of the bay or perched on the Highway 37 – Napa River bridge.  Osprey can be observed carrying fish to their nests on Mare Island from approximately March through August.

Use binoculars or spotting scopes for a closer look.  Quick movements and loud noises will scare away most wildlife. Staying quietly in one location will let wildlife adjust to your presence. Many animals that have hidden will reappear once they think you are gone. Be aware of sounds and smells. Often you will hear more than you will see. Look for traces of animals including tracks, scat, feathers and nests that tell interesting stories. Please leave this evidence for others to observe.