APPENDIX B: OBSERVATION POINTS FOR SEABIRD COLONIES 



Birdwatching is a major form of recreation throughout North America. It contributes to 

 the enjoyment and education of people and furthers their appreciation of the natural world. 

 Hatler, Campbell and Dorst (1978) describe the philosophy of birdwatching as follows: 



"It wasn't the gold I was wanting, as much as just finding the gold." 

 This line, from one of the most famous poems by Robert Service, alludes to 

 the passion for discovering existing to some extent in everyone. It is likely 

 that the widespread appeal of birdwatching is based, to a considerable 

 degree, on its potential for providing thrills of discovery at all levels of 

 "importance." At any moment the observer may discover a species he has 

 not seen before, a significant personal event because it represents a broaden- 

 ing of one's experience. Or, he may discover a bird which few people have 

 seen in that season or at that locality. Then, oh happy day, there is the 

 occasional discovery of a species which has never, or only rarely, been seen 

 previously in a province, country, or even continent. The birdwatcher 

 may also contribute to knowledge of the ecology of a species by observing 

 birds involved in their various annual activities. Finally, even if a series of 

 observations does not include anything unusual, the observer will likely have 

 discovered, or rediscovered, the sense of satisfaction which comes from 

 relating to other creatures with which we share the Earth. 



Birders in California have the opportunity to view not only large colonies of seabirds but 

 also several species of marine birds that are difficult to see, either because they are uncommon 

 or because they rarely come close to land. However, the well-meaning student of natural 

 history can easily disrupt seabird colonies in his or her quest to observe or photograph nesting 

 seabirds. Recognizing the rewards of observing seabirds and the need for information about 

 viewing opportunities, as well as the disturbance problems that can occur, we have included this 

 section. We have listed viewing points where large seabird colonies can be observed as well as 

 locations where less common species can be seen without causing disturbances. Readers are 

 encouraged to read the section on human disturbance (page 5) before visiting these sites. The 

 use of binoculars or better yet, a spotting scope are essential. 



One of the best ways to view marine birds is through pelagic boat trips, regularly offered 

 at several ports in California. Pelagic trips result in little or no disturbance to birds and the 

 viewer can see several species that are infrequently observed from land, such as the albatross, 

 storm-petrels, and shearwaters. Interested parties should contact local chapters of the Audubon 

 Society for information. 



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