This presentation examines the ecological connections between Mono Lake and San
Francisco Bay through the lens of California Gull population dynamics. Following the
Open-File Report 2026–1064
Ecosystems Mission Area—Land Management Research Program and Species Management Research Program
The South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project aims to restore many former salt production ponds, now managed for wildlife and water quality, to tidal marsh.
San Francisco Bay supports thousands of breeding waterbirds annually and historically has hosted large populations of American avocets (Recurvirostra americana), black-necked stilts (Himantopus mexicanus), and Forster’s terns (Sterna forsteri).
In south San Francisco Bay, former salt ponds now managed as wildlife habitat support large populations of breeding waterbirds. In 2006, the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project began the process of converting 50% to 90% of these managed pond habitats into tidal marsh.
Gull populations can severely limit the productivity of waterbirds. Relocating gull colonies may reduce their effects on nearby breeding waterbirds, but there are few examples of this management strategy.
Our objectives are to determine the impact of gulls on breeding snowy plovers and Forster’s terns.; Color-mark California gulls at A6 to determine potential nesting distributions after restoration of A6.; Continue our California gull colony surveys to document current population size.