Black oyster-catcher

Of special interest among the park’s many birds is the black oyster-catcher, recognizable by its crimson bill; it can be seen along the rocky shore. During the summer, pigeon guillemots with black breeding plumage, white wing-bars, and bright crimson legs and webbed feet nest in the inaccessible holes of the cliffs. Cormorants and western gulls are some of the other residents of the bluffs and offshore rocks.

Red-tailed Hawk

Racoon

Wildlife also abounds throughout the park. The hills, valleys and bluffs are home to black-tailed deer, coyote and hawks. The best chance to see inland creatures is during the early morning hours. Take the easy walk along Bluff Trail or head up to one of the peaks. But remember: there’s a reason part of the park is named Rattlesnake Flats: you’re likely to see one. Periodically, the park has been home to California Mountain Lions too.

California live oak and Bishop pine dot the hills; in the canyons are willow, big-leaf maple, box elder, and black cottonwood. The park abounds with wildlife including brush rabbits, black-tailed hares, opossum and raccoons. At dusk, deer come down to browse on the coastal plain.