History

For nearly 100 years, the nine acres of rock and beach just a half mile off California’s coast were managed as a Coast Guard station with a resident lightkeeper staff. While the lighttower and foghorn prevented shipwrecks along the coast, introduced rabbits decimated the native vegetation on the island and created conditions for rapid soil erosion.

The sea lions, elephant seals, and seabirds that rely on this marine sanctuary began returning in the tens of thousands after the light station was retired and the island was designated a wildlife reserve, but the habitat has recovered slowly. Since 1993, Oikonos and our partners have worked to improve the seabird habitat and study the breeding birds that depend on this rare, predator-free refuge.

Context

Año Nuevo Island is the largest seabird breeding colony in the productive and biodiverse Monterey Bay. It supports species that are considered marine health indicators and vulnerable to climate change. Of the seven breeding seabirds on the island, the Rhinoceros and Cassin’s Auklet build nests underground, digging long burrows in the sandy soil to raise their single chick. Our restoration efforts have focused on stabilizing soil and protecting these vulnerable species from incidental crushing by sea lions and erosion. In addition to Rhinoceros and Cassin’s Auklets, Western Gulls, Brandt’s and Pelagic Cormorants, Black Oystercatchers, and Pigeon Guillemots rely on the island’s beaches, cliffs, and terraces to raise their chicks. Working closely with design and restoration partners, we use innovative tools to improve habitat for all seabird species and monitor the health of the populations. Research is supported by our early-career training program, in which we partner with the Doris Duke Conservation Scholar Program and UC Santa Cruz Environmental Studies Department to equip young stewards with field experience and opportunities.