Birds and the Los Angeles River
Water attracts many species of birds to the river. Some live in the area year around. Some visit during only certain seasons. Others stop in for a short time while migrating to some other destination. The river provides a convenient fly-way for many birds crossing Los Angeles County. Many migratory birds use the small lakes at Sepulveda Basin as a stop over for food and rest.
Kimball Garrett of the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum has completed a major report on the plant and animal life along the Los Angeles River. Most of the plants and wildlife inhabit the section between the Sepulveda Flood Control Basin and Frogtown. The constant supply of reclaimed water, many natural sandy bottoms in this section, and the proximity of Griffith Park has promoted the return of life. Mallards (left) and White Egrets (right) are common along this section. Over 200 species of birds have been seen in the Sepulvada basin, and 125 species have been observed in Frogtown.
Some of the birds observed in the area from the Sepulveda basin to Frogtown include Great Blue Herons, Canada Geese, and Kingfishers. Red-tailed Hawks and Kestrels visit from Griffith Park. The San Francisco Estuary Institute publishes on-line avian survey forms and instructions. The National Audubon Society has produced a booklet on 45 common species in the 108 acre Sepulveda Basin wildlife area. Local Audobon Chapters offer information on field trips, regional projects and other web resources on birds:
Los Angeles Audubon ChapterSanta Monica
Bay Audubon ChapterLong Beach
Audubon ChapterThe Environmental Education Network posts a list of resources for students and teachers, including lessons on birds published by Earth Generation.
Photos by Esther Zack
Continue the tour here. So batten down your hard drives and cover your keyboards. The adventures of the urban river awaits you. Good Luck and remember, don't drink the water!
| [ Map | Headwaters | First Channel | Convergence | Sepulveda Basin | Verdugo Wash | Los Feliz | Frogtown | Arroyo Seco | 4th St. Bridge | Rio Hondo | Lower River | Long Beach ] |
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