San Leandro Bay
Map SatelliteThis major water-oriented open space in the heart of an urban area provides an excellent wildlife habitat for a variety of birds. In Arrowhead Marsh, and elsewhere along the perimeter, are salt marshes with pickleweed, Salicornia pacifica, the dominant vegetation. Arrowhead Marsh is flooded at high tide. Other plants found here include Limonium californicum and Grindelia cuneifolia (?).
During the migratory season numerous shorebirds and waterfowl utilize the area for resting and feeding. Several thousand individuals may be observed here during the height of the season, including both diving and dabbling ducks. Three types of rails, the endangered California clapper rail, Rallus longirostris obsoletus, Virginia rail, Rallus limicola, and the sora, Porzana carolina, are observed here. Various Ardeidae feed here, their nearest known rookery being several kilometers to the east.
Integrity: Much of the marsh area has been filled, and various commercial and recreational facilities ring the Bay. Portions of the Bay are used for water sports.
Use: Observational, educational, research, light recreation.
February 1976
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman