Hayward Regional Shoreline

Wildlife

The abundant and diverse assortment of birds, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates that dwell in the regional parks is an integral part of the ecology of the San Francisco Bay Area and an aesthetic natural feature of the parks that visitors greatly enjoy. The terrestrial wildlife found within the parks occupies a variety of habitats. Most species are native and adapted to the California landscape and climate. The District manages animals that are not native to the region or are feral (domestic animals that have returned to a wild, untamed condition) to minimize conflicts with native species. The District is responsible for the protection of all wildlife, including animals that are state and federally listed as rare, threatened, and/or endangered, and others that are of local concern. Certain additional species, whose specific habitat requirements limit their population size and distribution, may require special management to reduce the potential for isolation or loss of the population.

Visit the Biodiversity Protection page to learn how the District protects wildlife.

    Policies

    Visit the Biodiversity Protection page to learn more about Domestic Cats in East Bay Parks.

    Posters & Brochures

    Interpretive Wildlife Brochures

    Protecting Wildlife

    The District is committed to protecting endangered wildlife and is especially concerned about four shoreline species: the California least tern, California Ridgway’s rails, western snowy plovers, and salt marsh harvest mice. If these birds and mice were widespread and common, we wouldn’t be as worried, but these species have lost about 95% of their tidal wetland habitat and are all listed as either threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act.

    Sometimes well-meaning park visitors believe they are giving an animal an opportunity for living a good life, but the reality is that domestic animals and pets released in the parks cannot fend for themselves and often starve, fall victim to diseases, or become prey to larger animals. In addition, introduced domestic animals often compete with native animals and cause disruptions in the food web.

    Visit the Biodiversity Protection page to learn how the District protects wildlife.

    Domestic Cats in East Bay Parks (PDF)

     

    Animal Shelters

    The East Bay Regional Park District is working with local animal shelters throughout the East Bay to safely relocate and rehome free-roaming domestic cats found in parks. Below is a list of shelters near you:

    Antioch, Animal Shelter

    Berkeley Animal Shelter

    Contra Costa County Animal Services

    East County Animal Shelter and Field Services

    Fremont Animal Services / Tri-City Animal Shelter

    Friends of Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS)

    Hayward Animal Shelter

    Oakland Animal Services

    East Bay SPCA - San Leandro Animal Services

    Publications and Reports

      Videos

       

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      Shorebird Sanctuary Volunteers

      How can you help wildlife?

       

        Links

        U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Sacramento Office)
        An agency for conserving and protecting the natural habitats of fish, wildlife, and plants in the state of California 

        Department of Fish and Wildlife
        Link to the state of California's Fish and Wildlife website 

        California Native Plant Society
        A group and advocate for conserving California's native plants 

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