California Black Oystercatchers

Black Oystercatchers are among the most charismatic and easily identifiable residents of our rocky intertidal coastline. But with less than 20,000 individuals left worldwide, their future is uncertain. Audubon members from Mendocino to Monterey (including Golden Gate Audubon) are taking part in population surveys that shed light on the natural history of this species, from its preferred foods to how it responds to predators. Anna Weinstein, marine program director at Audubon California, will update you on this inspiring citizen-science effort and explain what is being done to protect Black Oystercatchers in a rapidly changing coastal world.