Dozens of volunteers with San Diego Bird Alliance and San Diego Gas & Electric removed waste and restored land in Mission Bay Saturday to prepare for the arrival of an endangered species of California bird.
More than 75 people at Mariners Point spent the day clearing invasive species, removing around 12,000 pounds of waste, and preparing the nesting grounds to create a safe environment for the California least terns’ upcoming breeding season.
The tern is a small seabird listed as endangered since 1970 and relies on Mariners Point as a key nesting site.
California least terns, the smallest of the tern species, lay their eggs directly on the sand, making their nests vulnerable to trampling, flooding, and predation.
Conservation efforts, like habitat restoration, are critical to their survival, said a SDG&E spokesperson.
Since 1970, conservation efforts have successfully increased the number of breeding pairs from around 624 to 5,000.
This year’s 13th annual volunteer event also included the reveal of a new sign at the site that provides information about the species and the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems.
The last sign was damaged and vandalized in 2024.
“This year’s efforts are even more meaningful as we rebuild after recent vandalism to help ensure the ongoing protection of the California Least Tern and the environment we all cherish,” said Scott Crider, president of SDG&E.
