Life and Death on Alcatraz Island: The Secret Life of Nesting Birds on The Rock

It may seem like a barren, lifeless rock with only the haunting memories of the past, but a battle for survival continues daily throughout Alcatraz Island. Cut off from the mainland, Alcatraz is a protected, prime nesting ground for many bird species — especially black-crowned night-herons, gulls and ravens. These three species must somehow coexist during each breeding season — with herons and gulls seeking prime nesting real estate, protecting their eggs and chicks against the hungry, voracious appetites of the ravens. The drama doesn’t end there, as raven populations themselves are strangely booming, and even resident ravens must fight off the antics of transient ravens. How will this struggle unfold? Bird experts from the U.S. Geological Survey will explain their theories, sharing their knowledge from over 20 years of Alcatraz studies — including rarely seen video footage of nesting night-herons and raven attacks. Bird fans, bring your questions — the talk and videos will be followed by an “Ask a Biologist” Q&A session.

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UPDATE:

New activities added!  In addition to the Q&A, the audience will touch and test the tools of the bird biologist’s trade. Dissect owl pellets to learn what a bird hunts and eats. See and touch the field gear that biologists use to survey birds. Plus coloring sheets of Bay Area birds for the little ones. See you on Saturday!

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Flyer for the event.

Suggested for Grades 3 and up.

Contact: Ben Young Landis, Outreach Coordinator, USGS Western Ecological Research Center, blandis@usgs.gov

When: October 29th 1:30 – 3:00PM

Where: Fort Mason, Golden Gate National Recreation Area Headquarters, 201 Fort Mason, San Francisco

Cost: FREE

Partner Organizations: USGS, GGNRA

Speakers:

Roger Hothem

Pete Coates

Brianne Brussee

To RSVP, contact:

Cost: FREE