Lower Tubbs Island Reserve
Map SatelliteThis marsh area is one of the last key habitats in the Bay Area of the canvasback duck, Nyroca valisineria. It is estimated that 90 percent of this species using the Pacific Flyway winter off the shores of the island.
Containing both fresh and salt water marshes, the reserve supports a rich and diversified flora and fauna. The island is a sanctuary for at least two species which are on the endangered list, the California clapper rail, Rallus longirostris obsoletus, and the saltmarsh harvest mouse, Reiithrodontomys raviventris . Here, too, is one of the few remaining hauling grounds in the Bay of the harbor seal, Phoca vitulina.
Known for the abundance of birds, daily counts of 65 or more species are not uncommon here. Black crowned night heron, Nycticorax nycticorax, American bittern, Botaurus lentiginosus, marbled godwit, Limosa fedoa, and long-billed curlew, Numenius americanus, are among those frequently sighted.
Integrity: The area has been long managed as a waterfowl habitat. A dike surrounds the island. There is a small headquarters building and several other insignificant buildings.
Use: Research, educational.
January 1975
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman