Features
American Avocet
Shorebird numbers such as those of the avocet, peak during spring migration
Yellow-footed Gull
The Salton Sea is the only area in the U.S. to see the Yellow-footed Gull.
Yuma Clapper Rail
Often heard but rarely seen, the Yuma Clapper Rail nests on the refuge.
Comprehensive Conservation Plan
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is pleased to announce the availability of the Draft Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex Comprehensive Plan and Environmental Assessment (EA) for public review and comment.
Learn More about the Comprehensive Conservation PlanAbout the Complex
The Complex includes Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge (SBSSNWR) and Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge (CVNWR)
Sonny Bono Salton Sea is managed as part of the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
Learn more about the complex About the NWRS
The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America’s fish, wildlife, and plants.
Learn more about the NWRS
Hot Topics
We offer guided tours and activities. Contact us at 1-760-348-5278 to learn more.
Recently Seen Birds:
Brant, Least Tern, & Red Knot
Find birding locations and a map on Southwest Birders!
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Learning Science
in a Fun & Exciting Way!
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Burrowing Owl
More than 70 percent of the California Burrowing Owl population is found within the Salton Sea ecosystem.
Page Photo Credits — All photos courtesy of USFWS unless otherwise noted.
Last Updated: Oct 03, 2014