San Francisco Bay

Audubon California has long been committed to protecting the birds and habitat of San Francisco Bay and its wetlands.

The Bay is the largest estuary on the West Coast and one of North America’s most important, supporting over 500 species of fish, mammals, and plants—many of which are threatened or endangered. Recognized as an international biodiversity hotspot, it provides critical habitat for shorebirds, waterfowl, and marsh birds. San Francisco Bay is also a key stopover along the Pacific Flyway, with over one million birds migrating through at peak season. Due to its ecological significance, the region includes three Important Bird Areas and has been designated as a site of "Hemispheric Importance" by the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network.

Audubon California’s Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary protects 900 acres of subtidal habitat, including a rare and vital eelgrass ecosystem. Eelgrass serves as a foundation for the Bay’s biodiversity, providing food and shelter for marine life while stabilizing shorelines and improving water quality. Our conservation efforts focus on restoring and protecting this critical resource to support both wildlife and local communities.