Region: Back Bay - Bayview Location: Crossroads are Pacific Coast Highway & Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, CA 92660 Phone: (949) 923- 2269

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Upper Newport Bay in Newport Beach is an estuary - a place where fresh and saltwater meet and mix. It is one of only a few remaining estuaries in Southern California and is the home of nearly 200 species of birds, including several endangered species, as well as numerous species of mammals, fish, other critters and native plants.

The Bay is an important stopover for migrating birds on the Pacific Flyway and up to 30,000 birds can be seen here on any day during the winter months. Its close proximity to the 73 Freeway makes Upper Newport Bay easily accessible to residents of Orange County and beyond. Many people come here to hike, cycle, canoe, kayak, fish or simply enjoy nature. Three sensitive species use the bluffs: The California Gnatcatcher, San Diego Cactus Wren, and Burrowing Owl. Two important plant communities are found on the bluffs - grasslands and coastal sage scrub.

Upper Newport Ecological Reserve totals 752 acres. This coastal wetland, one of the largest in southern California, is renowned as one of the finest bird watching sites in North America. It is home to six rare or endangered species: Light Footed Clapper Rail, Brown Pelican, Belding's Savannah Sparrow, Black Rail, Peregrine Falcon and California Least Tern. The Bay is home to one endangered plant species - Saltmarsh Bird's Beak. Considered a "critical estuary" habitat - Upper Newport Bay is one of the most pristine remaining estuaries in Southern California.

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Nature walks usually take place on the 1st and/or 3rd Saturday of the month. Join a Naturalist at Shellmaker Island at 9 a.m. for an introduction to the Bay, then car pool over to the Big Canyon for a walk that takes you through several habitats and gives you an opportunity to experience the diversity of plants and wildlife at the Bay. Bring sun protection and binoculars if you have them. No reservations required. This tour is free. Please call (949) 923- 2269 for more information.

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