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Overview
Upper Newport Bay - also known as Newport Back Bay - is a salt marsh juxtaposed between San Diego Creek and the Pacific Ocean in Orange County, California.
Birds
Notable Species
The winter months bring massive numbers of migratory birds - especially ducks. Teal, American Wigeon, and Bufflehead show up in droves. Some birds can be found year-round, but show much larger numbers in late fall and winter. Raptor populations stay typically strong throughout the year. Harriers can be seen strafing the cliffs, while Osprey fish along the main creek and speckle the bay. Red-tailed Hawk and American Kestrel love the grasslands. Upper Newport Bay is the only local spot of which I know where the light-footed Ridgway's Rail can be seen.
Check-list
Birds you can see here include:
American Wigeon, Bufflehead, Ridgway's Rail, Osprey, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, American Avocet
Other Wildlife
To do
Site Information
The absolute best way to see the bay is by kayak or canoe. I've approached large colonies of skimmers and godwits without much of a fuss. Swarms of shorebirds passing just a couple meters overhead is, to say the least, interesting.
- NOTE
During neap tides (full and new moon) the water level may rise to the point that the marsh will flood. During these times, light-footed Ridgway's rails can be observed along the edges of the marsh.
History and Use
The simple trails are used by runners, cyclists, equestrians, painters, and birders. Kayaking is allowed in the bay up to the narrow channels (see a map for better details on accessibility).
Areas of Interest
As a bonus, a couple trails along San Diego Creek can be taken to nearby San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. Also, Huntington Beach's Bolsa Chica Wetlands are only about 30 minutes away. It's really easy to hit all three spots in an afternoon.
Access and Facilities
It can be easily reached from the 55 and 405 freeways at Newport Blvd. and Jamboree Rd. respectively. There is an interpretive center on-site with information on the ecosystem and animal species. There are no fees except for a new parking fee in a small lot which nobody uses anyway.
Contact Details
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External Links
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Content and images originally posted by DiggitalD
