Seabird Protection Network 

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The Seabird Protection Network - Pt. Sur to Pt. Mugu is a collaborative project that brings together the public, scientists, community groups, businesses, interpreters, law enforcement officers, non-profit groups such as PRBO Conservation Science, and agencies including California State Parks, California Department of Fish and Game, the Department of Defense Vandenberg Air Force Base, and the Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service and Bureau of Land Management.  This collaboration is created to more effectively understand, manage, and protect the seabirds that rest and roost along the South Central Coast of California.  To learn more about the Seabird Protection Network - Pt. Sur to Pt. Mugu visit our "About the Seabird Protection Network" and "Torch / Platform Irene Oil Spill" web pages.

Connect to the Seabird Protection Network on Facebook

Get the "SeaPhoto" Smart Phone Application from the Monterey Bay NMS

What Kind of Disturbances Threaten Seabirds?

There are numerous threats to seabirds and the need for protection continues to increase.  People unwittingly or accidentally disturb seabirds, particularly at their nesting colonies or roosting sites.  These disturbances come from a variety of sources in the coastal zone: economic uses, recreational uses, national security, or threats to human safety.  Loud noises, excessive light, toxic chemicals, and pets are all examples of disturbances that can threaten the breeding success of seabirds and create undue stress on the seabirds themselves.

State and federal laws such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 and the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 protect seabirds and other marine life from disturbance and harassment.  Being aware of wildlife around you is the key to preventing disturbance.  Breeding and roosting seabird species, particularly those that nest or roost on cliffs or offshore rocks are highly susceptible to human disturbances.  To learn more about how you can protect seabirds visit our "Tips for Seabird Protection" webpage. 

Who is Taking the Lead on the Network in this Region?

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is taking the lead in overseeing the Seabird Protection Network from Pt. Sur in southern Monterey County to Pt. Mugu at the southern end of Ventura County.  This collaborative project includes partners in management of the BLM California Coastal National Monument, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, California State Parks, and PRBO Conservation Science.

How Can You Get Involved?

Please join us on this mission to protect and understand seabirds.  Sign up to receive email alerts regarding special field trips and events, and to learn more about the SPN.  Businesses that wish to support the SPN can request posters and brochures to have available to the public and interested visitors.  Kids and teachers can also request posters and brochures.

Learn about the "Very Important Populations" (VIPs) in the Seabird Protection Network - Pt. Sur to Pt. Mugu.

Test your knowledge with our Seabird Challenge Quiz and then take the Seabird Safe Pledge.

For further information about the Seabird Protection Network - Pt. Sur to Pt. Mugu please contact:

Eric Morgan, Network Regional Coordinator

Dr. Michael F. Westphal, Biological and Human Disturbance Monitoring Lead

Dan Robinette, Principal Field Investigator, Biological and Human Disturbance Monitoring

Cara O'Brien, Outreach and Environmental Education Lead

Brien Chartier, Law Enforcement Co-Lead (Southern)

Peter Fonken, Law Enforcement Co-Lead (Northern)

Bureau of Land Management
California Coastal National Monument
National Landscape Conservation System
Division of Natural Resources
California State Office
USDI Bureau of Land Management
2800 Cottage Way, W-1623 
Sacramento, CA 95825
Phone: (916) 978-4636
fax: (916) 978-4657
Contact us by e-mail