Seal Beach Wildlife Refuge Tour Provides a Break From Routine

Watched enough football?

The wetlands at the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station can provide an unusual diversion.

During a two-hour tour of the wetlands starting Saturday at 9 a.m., trained docents will lead participants on a nature hike of less than a mile, pointing out rare Southern California birds in their natural habitat.

Participants might see such birds as the snowy egret, great blue heron, brown pelican and peregrine falcon. A total of 256 species of birds have been seen at the refuge, including five endangered species.

The walk will be hosted by the Navy and co-sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, El Dorado Audubon Society and Friends of Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge.

In addition to pointing out rare birds, docents will educate participants on the various endangered birds living on the refuge.

Bruce Monroe, chairman of the friends group, said the day will include a habitat cleanup. Adults and children are invited to help pull unwanted ice plant from the refuge. Volunteers will plant native wildflowers and plants in place of the ice plant, Monroe said.

Families are advised to wear hiking boots and bring binoculars. Cameras are not allowed.

No reservations are required. The event is repeated on the last Saturday of each month.

Families should enter the weapons station through its main gate off Seal Beach Boulevard. Information: (310) 430-8495.