Western Bluebird – Alameda Point Environmental Report

New shoreline landscaping is benefiting wildlife

The landscaping next to the Encinal Boat Ramp restrooms has added eye appeal for humans, while providing sources of food and shelter for wildlife. Bugs, bees, and birds come and go through the seasons, taking advantage of the mulch-covered ground and different shrubs and flowers. This area and the adjacent dune and beach were enhanced by the East Bay Regional Park District in 2020.

Taking a closer look at the activity in this micro habitat reveals life that may not be readily apparent or appreciated.

Western Bluebird chicks raised on smorgasbord of bugs

The brightly colored male and its grayer colored mate were spotted briefly landing on top of an old light pole, as if to show off their insect catch. More likely it was a precautionary stop to ensure that no predators were lurking nearby before springing into air and entering the nest cavity in the pole just below the top.

This was the only clue in early May 2020 that a pair of Western Bluebirds had a nest at the old campground at Alameda Point. The chicks were silent and unseen for weeks until they began peering out of the hole a few days before flying away.

Continue reading “Western Bluebird chicks raised on smorgasbord of bugs”

Bird Life at Alameda Point – Fall 2013

Featured here is a sampling of the wide variety of birds that enjoy the Alameda Point environment, from the wooded residential neighborhood and wooded parkland, to the shoreline, to the wide open runway area. Most notable of recent sightings is the Golden Eagle, which has been seen off and on for at least a year hunting for rabbits and other prey on the runway area Nature Reserve.