The estuary has been designated both a national and state preserve.
 Morro Estuary Natural Preserve and its800-acre wetland are home to dozens of endangered species. This bird sanctuary is home to more than 250 species of land, sea, and shore birds, both migratory and resident.
This extensive marsh is located at the mouth of Los Osos Creek, opening out into Morro Bay.
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| Brandt’s Cormorant colony on Pillar Rock in Morro Bay |
Wildflowers bloom in the spring and green grass and brush cover the hills, offering a seed supply that attracts birds all year-round. A rookery of great blue herons is located in eucalyptus trees
beside the bay just north of the museum. Every January, Morro Bay hosts the Winter Bird Festival (www.morro-bay.net/birds)
Bird Watching
Heron Rookery
The great blue herons and the great and snowy egrets roost all year at the Rookery located near the entrance of the museum. You can locate the rookery from the bay, by the cluster of dead trees. Or you can view the rookery from the parking lot of the Inn at Morro Bay. Droppings from these large birds have altered the eco-system causing a high acidity level that the trees are unable to withstand.
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| The Heron Rookery is north of Morro Bay SP on State Park Road |
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| Great Egret |
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Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders
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| Blue Heron Nest |
Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons, Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site and observe these magnificent birds. Learn about and watch courtship rituals, nesting habits, and, in spring, adults caring for their young. Binoculars recommended. Meet at the Museum.
For more info visit Adventures with Nature
Sweet Springs Natural Preserve
(Owned and managed by Morro Coast Audubon Society)
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