TEXT┐ Much like the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of eastern North America, the Pacific coast Life Zone is a long and linear region that is primarily defined by the parameters of tide and current flow, wave action, water temperature, shoreline character, and intertidal composition. Together these elements combine to create habitats for a myriad of organisms, including a great variety of bird species at all times of the year.In estuaries with expansive tidal flats, thousands of shorebirds pause to rest and feed during migration and winter. The giant kelp beds and rocky coasts of central California are home not only to playful Sea Otters, but also to a host of wintering sea ducks and rock-loving shorebirds such as Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstone, Wandering Tattler, and Surfbird. Above the giant rolling swells of offshore Monterey Bay, Black-footed Albatrosses spread their great pinions over the nutrient-laden dwellings that annually concentrate huge concentrations of shearwaters, storm petrels, jaegers, and alcids, each at appropriate seasons of the year.On more isolated beach fronts, beleaguered populations of Snowy Plovers and Least Terns nest, while no fewer than ten species of gulls may be tallied from a single site at certain times of year. Among the sand dunes behind these beaches is a modest-assortment of beach plants and wildflowers, each with its own adaptations for dealing with the briny environment nearby.In tidal marshes bordering the larger bays and estuaries, indigenous residents like the Clapper Rail and Black Rail are becoming increasingly rare as their marshland habitat steadily disappears. On the other hand, coastal species such as Brown Pelican and Double-crested Cormorant actually appear to be increasing in recent years.Regardless of the season, the Pacific Coast Life Zone always affords something of interest for the birder and naturalist, if not also for the everyday beach-goer who simply wants to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
