Local Bird Species

There is a wide variety of birds that inhabit the central coast of California and are often times seen from the Cal Poly pier at Avila. These animals play an important role in the ecosystem because they prey on marine life and sometimes interact with humans as well. Future plans for research on the Cal Poly pier do include ornithology or the study of birds.

Western Gull - Larus occidentalis

A coastal resident often seen on wharves, jetties and docks, the western gull is has white plumage with a dark slate-gray mantle. It catches fish by diving or wading. Often seen following fishing boats, this gull commonly feeds on scraps thrown overboard by fish cleaners.

Pelagic cormorant - Phalacrocorax pelagicus

Pelagic cormorants live along open, windswept, coasts. They nest along with other cormorants and other seabirds on steep, remote cliffs where they’re safer from predators. Pelagic cormorants hunt alone, often diving into heavy surf for crabs, worms and small fishes. Though they often dive in shallow water along the shores, they also can make very deep dives—sometimes to 180 feet (55 m) or more.

Pigeons - Columba livia

Pigeon distribution includes most of North America from southern Canada south, as well as Hawaii. Normally the home range of a pigeon flock is less than one square mile; however, pigeons will travel 10 or more miles from their roost sites in search of food. Male and female pigeons are difficult to distinguish as both are similar in coloration. Female pigeons, though, have a tendency to hold their tail higher and waddle when walking, and are somewhat smaller in size.

 

Other species include: