Introducing the Bird Survey Explorer

Introducing the Bird Survey Explorer

We’re thrilled to share our newest interactive feature on the website: the Bird Survey Explorer. For years, the Petaluma Wetlands Alliance has tracked bird life across our two premier wetlands — Shollenberger Park since 2004 and the Ellis Creek Water...
Killdeer

Killdeer

Observed at Shollenberger Park on the morning of Saturday, May 30, 2026: A Killdeer chick waits patiently for its little sibling to emerge from under the mother Killdeer. Photos by Ted...
Will the Herons Return to Nest?

Will the Herons Return to Nest?

By Linda Sheppard For many years, Great Blue Herons, Great Egrets and Double Crested Cormorants have been nesting in three eucalyptus trees at the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Plant. The nesting area is not visible to the public from the Ellis Creek trails because the...
Winter Wonders at Shollenberger Park

Winter Wonders at Shollenberger Park

As winter settles in, Shollenberger Park in Petaluma, California, becomes a true sanctuary for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. This serene wetland, bordered by the Petaluma River and a vibrant mosaic of salt marshes, is a hidden gem that comes alive in the winter...
“Oonk-a-lunk” American Bittern

“Oonk-a-lunk” American Bittern

Walking through Shollenberger the other day, I had an unexpected encounter with one of nature’s most elusive creatures – the American Bittern. I was alerted to its presence by its strange, guttural call. It is a deep, resonant “oonk-a-lunk” like a...
Owl box camera following 2 owls

Owl box camera following 2 owls

After cleaning out the large owl box in the dead Eucalyptus tree in October it has been occupied by same two owls consistently. Good chance this is now a formal pairing and we will be watching for eggs in early 2023. See this recent short video of their activity....

Pin It on Pinterest

Secret Link