Morro Bay Estuary and Mudflats

The Morro Bay National Estuary is a unique and rich ecosystem. Ocean water coming into the estuary around Morro Rock and nutrients flowing in from freshwater creeks make this a good environment for a wide variety of plants and animals. While on their hike, students engage in several activities that introduce them to the diversity of life in this ecosystem. Before starting their trip to Morro Bay, students learn how to identify local raptors. On the bus trip, they take a raptor survey along Highway 1. The count from each day is collected and added to a Raptor Count chart. This activity gives students some insight into scientific data collection techniques. Belly Biology is a very hands on activity. Students visit a floating dock and have the opportunity to touch and learn about the animals living and growing along the sides. We stress the human impact on these delicate creatures and teach students proper ways of handling them. We also collect plankton samples for viewing under the microscope later that day. A favorite activity is Mudflat Digging. Students get down and dirty digging for animals living under the mud in the back of the estuary. They regularly find Bent-Nosed Clams, Ghost Shrimp, shore crabs, and Arrow Goby fish. On rarer occasions, they find Innkeeper Worms and Scale Worms. This activity is the reason we ask students to bring their old clothes! At Morro Rock, students study geology and volcanic formation. Peregrine Falcons and Sea Otters often make appearances and students use binoculars and spotting scopes to watch them go about their daily lives. During the winter months, students hike through a local Monarch Butterfly hibernation area. Thousands of monarchs hang like dead leaves from trees and slowly flutter between branches. It is a fascinating sight and gives us an excellent opportunity to discuss migration and hibernation. The Heron & Egret Rookery is active in the spring when birds are rebuilding their nests and caring for their young.

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Last update: Saturday, September 23, 2006 at 11:19:47 PM
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