A Tiny Endangered California Least Tern: How Bird Banding Helps Conservation
Meet a young endangered California Least Tern photographed in Carlsbad and learn how bird banding helps researchers track survival, movement, and conservation.
📸 Wildlife Jewels Rescue Crew Search Scout Jennifer Vanderwoerd | Carlsbad, California
A tiny endangered seabird—and an important reminder of why protecting our coast matters.
This young California Least Tern, photographed in Carlsbad, is part of a species fighting for survival along California’s coast.
The California Least Tern is federally and state listed as endangered—a designation that reflects how vulnerable this species remains and how important continued protection is to its survival and recovery.
Least Terns nest on open sand and other sparsely vegetated coastal areas, making their eggs and chicks especially vulnerable to habitat loss, human disturbance, dogs, and activity near nesting colonies.
Look closely at this little bird’s legs: she is wearing a green research band and a federal metal band. Bird banding helps biologists learn about individual birds—their survival, movements, breeding history, and connections between nesting colonies—providing valuable information for conservation.
California Least Terns can live for many years, with some banded individuals documented surviving for more than two decades. That means a tiny band placed on a chick today can potentially help researchers follow her story for years to come.
For an endangered species, every single successfully raised chick matters. Protecting nesting habitat, respecting posted closures and fencing, keeping dogs away from colonies, and giving birds plenty of space can make a meaningful difference.
This precious chick was photographed from a distance through protective fencing, allowing her to remain undisturbed.
Every nest matters. Every chick matters. Every protected stretch of habitat matters.💚
Learn about Wildlife Jewels EYES and ways you can get involved!
Learn about Wildlife Jewels Rescue Crew and ways you can help!
Meet Opal the Western Gull
Meet Opal, the Western Gull chick, when she was just about a week old. 🤍
We’ve spent countless hours in the field observing and helping protect Opal and her family since she was still an egg. This photograph was taken in June 2026. 💜
Watching Opal grow from a tiny chick into the beautiful fledgling she is today has been incredibly special—and a reminder of why every effort to protect vulnerable wildlife matters.
Opal is now one of the precious wild lives featured in our Jewels of La Jolla educational art collection, celebrating the remarkable wildlife that makes this coastline so magical. ✨
Image: Opal, Western Gull chick, June 2026, La Jolla, CA. © Wildlife Jewels® | Photo by Azi Sharif
Opal the Gull pecking at discarded plastic left near her nesting area © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif | August 2, 2026
Wildlife Jewels’ World Ocean Day Wildlife Walk, La Jolla
Observed during our EYES™ Field Day with SDSU MEBSA students: a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—highlighting the importance of careful observation and reporting.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Community BIRD WALK, National Bird Day JANUARY 2026
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
Plastic Pollution Threatens Western Gull Fledglings in La Jolla
Wildlife Jewels documents increasing litter along the La Jolla shoreline, where young Western Gull fledglings are encountering and ingesting discarded plastic.
Opal the Gull pecking at discarded plastic left near her nesting area © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif | August 2, 2026
Our wildlife deserves better.
This is Opal, one of the precious Western Gull fledglings we have had the privilege of observing and documenting since she was still an egg. Seeing her now ingesting discarded plastic is heartbreaking—and completely preventable.
During a recent Wildlife Jewels EYES Search Scout survey along the La Jolla shoreline, we documented an alarming amount of trash throughout an active Western Gull nesting area.
Over the past month, our team has seen a steady increase in litter, especially during evening surveys after busy visitor periods. We regularly remove trash when it is accessible, but last Sunday was among the worst conditions we have documented.
Young fledglings—barely two months old—were pecking at plastic food packaging, bread bags, plastic forks, and other discarded waste. Our team collected the accessible trash that day, but wildlife should never be exposed to this level of danger.
Littering is illegal, and leaving waste in an active nesting area puts wildlife at serious risk.
Clear, highly visible signage placed on the beach along with consistent enforcement are urgently needed to remind visitors to properly dispose of all waste and help protect the birds that depend on this habitat.
Meet Opal the Western Gull
Meet Opal, the Western Gull chick, when she was just about a week old. 🤍
We’ve spent countless hours in the field observing and helping protect Opal and her family since she was still an egg. This photograph was taken in June 2026. 💜
Watching Opal grow from a tiny chick into the beautiful fledgling she is today has been incredibly special—and a reminder of why every effort to protect vulnerable wildlife matters.
Opal is now one of the precious wild lives featured in our Jewels of La Jolla educational art collection, celebrating the remarkable wildlife that makes this coastline so magical. ✨
Image: Opal, Western Gull chick, June 2026, La Jolla, CA. © Wildlife Jewels® | Photo by Azi Sharif
Learn about Wildlife Jewels EYES and ways you can get involved!
Learn about Wildlife Jewels Rescue Crew and ways you can help!
Opal the Gull pecking at discarded plastic left near her nesting area © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif | August 2, 2026
Wildlife Jewels’ World Ocean Day Wildlife Walk, La Jolla
Observed during our EYES™ Field Day with SDSU MEBSA students: a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—highlighting the importance of careful observation and reporting.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Community BIRD WALK, National Bird Day JANUARY 2026
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
Celebrating World Ocean Day with Wildlife Jewels
Wildlife Jewels brought the community together for a special World Ocean Day Wildlife Walk, sharing real stories of La Jolla's seabirds, marine mammals, and the importance of protecting our coastal wildlife.
Wildlife Jewels’ World Ocean Day Wildlife Walk Along the La Jolla Shoreline | June 6, 2026
Wildlife Jewels was honored to celebrate World Ocean Day by bringing the community together for a special wildlife walk along the beautiful La Jolla coastline.
Together, we explored one of Southern California’s most remarkable coastal habitats while discovering the marine mammals and seabirds that make La Jolla their home. Throughout the walk, participants learned from real wildlife stories Wildlife Jewels has observed, photographed, monitored, documented, and supported through our EYES® field monitoring program and Rescue Crew.
One of the special parts of the walk was helping participants learn what to look for in the field, including signs of injured, entangled, starving, or distressed wildlife, and how careful observation and reporting can help animals receive timely support. Along the way, we shared stories of resilience, rescue, and survival, as well as the challenges wildlife faces, including entanglements, marine debris, injuries, seabird starvation, harmful algal blooms, and human disturbance.
By connecting people with individual animals and habitats we have come to know through countless hours of routine field surveys, participants gained a deeper appreciation for La Jolla’s remarkable wildlife and the importance of protecting the places they depend on.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating World Ocean Day. We hope the walk inspired new connections with the ocean and the extraordinary wildlife that makes the La Jolla coastline so special.
Through Wildlife Jewels’ EYES® La Jolla field monitoring and the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Crew programs, our volunteers conduct regular coastal wildlife surveys, document wildlife activity and threats, support reporting and rescue coordination, and help birds and other wildlife in need receive care whenever possible.
Photographs from the event were beautifully captured by The Ocean Alchemist.
Learn about Wildlife Jewels EYES and ways you can get involved!
Learn about Wildlife Jewels Rescue Crew and ways you can help!
Observed during our EYES™ Field Day with SDSU MEBSA students: a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—highlighting the importance of careful observation and reporting.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Community BIRD WALK, National Bird Day JANUARY 2026
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
Black Oystercatcher at Point La Jolla: A Jewel of La Jolla’s Protected Shoreline
A Black Oystercatcher observed during Wildlife Jewels EYES routine monitoring at Point La Jolla — a striking reminder of the importance of protecting La Jolla’s rocky shoreline habitat within this protected marine area.
A Black Oystercatcher at La Jolla, CA June 2026 | © Wildlife Jewels/ Azi Sharif
An enchanting sight during a Wildlife Jewels EYES routine monitoring day at Point La Jolla ✨
A beautiful Black Oystercatcher, with its vivid orange-red bill, moved along the rocky shoreline — a magical jewel of the coast and a beautiful reminder of what is at stake.
Point La Jolla lies within a protected marine area, and this precious shoreline supports sensitive coastal birds and vulnerable ocean life. At a time when this habitat continues to face growing human pressures, protecting it must remain a priority. 🧡
Learn about Wildlife Jewels EYES and ways you can get involved!
Observed during our EYES™ Field Day with SDSU MEBSA students: a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—highlighting the importance of careful observation and reporting.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Community BIRD WALK, National Bird Day JANUARY 2026
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
Western Gull Parents Protect Chicks on La Jolla Cliffs
An enchanting Father’s Day moment along the La Jolla coast ✨ During our routine Wildlife Jewels EYES monitoring yesterday, we witnessed a magical scene of devoted gull parents, fierce protection, and coastal wonder.
A Western Gull family at La Jolla, CA | © Wildlife Jewels/ Azi Sharif
Happy Father’s Day from Wildlife Jewels
A Father’s Day weekend moment along the La Jolla coast ✨
During our routine Wildlife Jewels EYES monitoring yesterday, we witnessed a remarkable scene of devoted gull parents, protective instincts, and coastal life.
When we arrived, two Western Gull parents were flying over two pelicans that had unknowingly landed in the nest area near their chicks. As the pelicans perched close by, both gull parents called, dove, and worked together to guide them away.
Western Gulls are incredibly intelligent birds, and both parents are deeply devoted to their young — working together to defend, protect, and care for their chicks. 💙
Learn about Wildlife Jewels EYES and ways you can get involved!
A Western Gull family and Pelicans at La Jolla, CA | © Wildlife Jewels/ Azi Sharif
Observed during our EYES™ Field Day with SDSU MEBSA students: a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—highlighting the importance of careful observation and reporting.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
For La Jolla seal and sea lion viewing guidelines, visit San Diego Seal Society.
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Community BIRD WALK, National Bird Day JANUARY 2026
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
A Magical Osprey Family Moment in Carlsbad | Wildlife Jewels
A magical moment we recently observed at a Carlsbad osprey nest: a devoted mother feeding one tiny chick, while the other waits patiently for her turn.
Osprey family observed at a Carlsbad nest, April 2026. © Wildlife Jewels / Azi Sharif
Happy Mother’s Day from Wildlife Jewels 💙
A magical moment we recently observed at a Carlsbad osprey nest: a devoted mother feeding one tiny chick, while the other waits patiently for her turn. Nearby, the father remained perched beside the nest after delivering food, standing guard over his family.
These precious chicks depend on their parents for every meal, every moment of warmth, and every chance to grow. May we protect their nests, their coast, and their wild future by giving nesting birds space and keeping fishing line and debris out of the environment.
Every nest matters. Every chick matters. 💙
Learn about Wildlife Jewels EYES and ways you can get involved!
Osprey family observed at a Carlsbad nest, April 2026. © Wildlife Jewels / Azi Sharif
Observed during our EYES™ Field Day with SDSU MEBSA students: a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—highlighting the importance of careful observation and reporting.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
For La Jolla seal and sea lion viewing guidelines, visit San Diego Seal Society.
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Community BIRD WALK, National Bird Day JANUARY 2026
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
Magical Coastal Moments: Observing Brandt’s Cormorants During EYES La Jolla Field Days
Sharing a few magical moments with Brandt’s Cormorants from our EYES La Jolla field days. ✨
Brandt’s Cormorants observed during an EYES La Jolla Field Day on April 11, 2024. © Wildlife Jewels / Azi Sharif
Sharing a few magical moments with Brandt’s Cormorants from our EYES La Jolla field days. ✨
These remarkable seabirds nest in bustling coastal colonies, building mound-like nests from seaweed and other marine plant material along rocky coastal cliffs. Watching them is like witnessing a little coastal neighborhood come to life — from tender moments between mothers and chicks to curious, playful interactions between adults.
We were delighted to witness these majestic birds and the beautiful ways they interact in their natural habitat.
Brandt’s Cormorants remind us that our coastline is full of wonder, beauty, and fascinating lives unfolding all around us — and why protecting them and their habitats matters.
More EYES Field Days ahead 💙
Learn about EYES La Jolla and ways you can get involved!
Brandt’s Cormorants observed during an EYES La Jolla Field Day on April 11, 2024. © Wildlife Jewels (Azi Sharif)
Observed during our EYES™ Field Day with SDSU MEBSA students: a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—highlighting the importance of careful observation and reporting.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
For La Jolla seal and sea lion viewing guidelines, visit San Diego Seal Society.
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Community BIRD WALK, National Bird Day JANUARY 2026
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
EYES Field Day in La Jolla with SDSU MEBSA Student Field Observations
Thank you to everyone who joined Wildlife Jewels for our EYES Field Day in La Jolla last Saturday. 🌊👀
Community in action—EYES Field Day observations with SDSU MEBSA students.
Thank you to everyone who joined Wildlife Jewels for our EYES Field Day in La Jolla last Saturday. 🌊👀
EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life™) is a Wildlife Jewels® program that helps detect and protect California’s coastal wildlife by training observers to spot distress, coastal hazards, and environmental threats early—reporting through appropriate pathways when urgent help is needed and collecting observations that support long-term protection.
A special thank you to the SDSU MEBSA students who joined us and collected structured field observations—these field days offer valuable hands-on experience for students who want real-world coastal stewardship training while contributing to wildlife protection.
Thank you as well to the San Diego Sierra Club Seal Society for sharing valuable seal education and respectful viewing guidance.
One powerful reminder from the day: we encountered a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—exactly the kind of situation EYES volunteers are trained to notice, document, and report so wildlife can get help as quickly as possible.
More EYES Field Days ahead 💙
San Diego State University’s Marine Ecology & Biology Student Association MEBSA’s mission is “to encourage and guide SDSU students and the public toward stewardship and protection of marine wildlife.”
Observed during our EYES™ Field Day with SDSU MEBSA students: a Western Gull with a concerning beak injury—highlighting the importance of careful observation and reporting.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
For La Jolla seal and sea lion viewing guidelines, visit San Diego Seal Society.
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Community BIRD WALK, National Bird Day JANUARY 2026
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
🦭✨ Pupping Season Magic — Children’s Pool, La Jolla
Last week, we witnessed one of La Jolla’s most breathtaking winter moments: harbor seals and their tiny pups resting like soft, living jewels along the shoreline—little hearts of the ocean, breathing, blinking, and learning the rhythm of the waves.
Image: Harbor seal pup © Wildlife Jewels® | Photo by Azi Sharif | La Jolla, CA
EYES Hearts Seals
Sharing a few magical moments from our recent observations along the La Jolla shoreline—one of winter’s most breathtaking sights: harbor seals and their tiny pups resting like soft, living jewels on the sand—little hearts of the ocean, breathing, blinking, and learning the rhythm of the waves.
It’s a privilege to share our shores with these precious mothers and pups—and a responsibility to protect them through space, respect, and calm observation. 💙🌊
Giving them space helps keep them safe—so pups can rest, nurse, and grow strong.
🌿 Want to help monitor seals with us?
Apply to for the opportunity to join Wildlife Jewels EYES Hearts Seals.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
For La Jolla seal and sea lion viewing guidelines, visit San Diego Seal Society.
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
🎥 Harbor seals and their pups at La Jolla, CA. Feb 2026 © Wildlife Jewels® | Video by Azi Sharif (zoom lens)
EYES Observation — King Tides (Jan 5) at La Jolla Cove © Wildlife Jewels
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
Wildlife jewels EYES Field Day: Seals & Sea Stars (Valentine’s Edition)
EYES Field Day: Seals & Sea Stars (Valentine’s Edition)
Wildlife Jewels + SDSU MEBSA will guide a wildlife-safe shoreline adventure: observe harbor seals from a respectful distance, explore nearby tidepools, and help document sea stars + intertidal life through simple, structured field observations.
EYES Field Day: Next Saturday — Join us in La Jolla for our Valentine’s EYES Field Day 💘🌊
EYES Field Day: Seals & Sea Stars (Valentine’s Edition)
Wildlife Jewels + SDSU MEBSA will guide a wildlife-safe shoreline adventure: observe harbor seals from a respectful distance, explore nearby tidepools, and help document sea stars + intertidal life through simple, structured field observations.
✅ Wildlife-safe viewing + tidepool etiquette
✅ Community science + marine stewardship
RSVP required. Reserve your spot HERE.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
For La Jolla seal and sea lion viewing guidelines, visit San Diego Seal Society.
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Observation — King Tides (Jan 5) at La Jolla Cove © Wildlife Jewels
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
King Tides Along the La Jolla Shoreline — Wildlife Jewels EYES Observations
During our recent EYES King Tides observations along the La Jolla shoreline, we watched the shoreline transform as extra-high water washed over much of the usual haul-out beach.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla - King Tides_ Monday January 5th, Point La Jolla
EYES Observation — King Tides (Jan 5) at La Jolla Cove
During our recent EYES™ King Tides observations along the La Jolla shoreline, we watched the shoreline transform as extra-high water washed over much of the usual haul-out beach.. Some of the precious sea lions found little sun-warmed pockets on the rocks, while others moved like shimmering jewels in the water—gliding and circling by the rocks, rising and dipping with the swell.
King tides are the highest high tides of the year and offer a glimpse of how rising seas can shrink coastal habitat, leaving less dry space for wildlife along the shore.
We also observed a sea lion entangled in fishing net; sadly, she was in a location that wasn’t safely accessible for responders at the time. During king tides, reduced haul-out space can add extra pressure for injured wildlife.
Admire from a distance—giving sea lions space helps them rest and stay safe.
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
Learn more at about ways you can protect coastal wildlife at the Wildlife Jewels Resources Page
For La Jolla seal and sea lion viewing guidelines, visit San Diego Seal Society.
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew (observation & reporting only)
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained, permitted volunteers only, transport support when a bird needs help.)
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the magical Jewels that make our coastline so special.
EYES Observation — King Tides (Jan 5) at La Jolla Cove © Wildlife Jewels
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla: Blog Updates
Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog Updates
Celebrating National Bird Day in La Jolla: Discovering Our Precious Bird Jewels
On National Bird Day, January 5, Wildlife Jewels® hosted a community bird walk in La Jolla, bringing together wildlife lovers to observe, learn, and connect with the remarkable coastal birds of La Jolla Cove.
Wildlife Jewels EYES La Jolla National Bird Day Discovery Day- Monday January 5th, La Jolla Cove
A Fabulous Day Celebrating our “Bird Jewels” at La Jolla Cove💙
On National Bird Day, January 5, Wildlife Jewels® hosted a community bird walk in La Jolla, bringing together wildlife lovers to observe, learn, and connect with the remarkable coastal birds of La Jolla Cove.
As we explored the coastline, we discovered an incredible variety of Bird Jewels, including Brandt’s cormorants, pelicans, Western and Heermann’s gulls, Elegant and Royal terns, and the striking Black Oystercatchers. Along the way, we also enjoyed the magic of California sea lions, sharing the shoreline with birds in a beautiful display of balance and coexistence.
Throughout the walk, participants learned about each species’ behaviors, habitats, and the challenges they face—along with simple ways to take action every day to help protect local wildlife. We also shared how the community can get involved with Wildlife Jewels’ EYES™ coastal wildlife monitoring program and our Rescue Crew, supporting the protection and rescue of birds and other coastal wildlife in La Jolla.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special National Bird Day experience—your curiosity, care, and presence make these moments meaningful.
✨ More La Jolla wildlife discovery experiences are coming soon—we can’t wait to share our next theme with you!
Take Action for Birds with Wildlife Jewels
Want to help protect La Jolla’s seabirds and coastal wildlife year-round? Here are two meaningful ways to get involved:
👀 Join EYES™ (Engage Your Eyes for Sea Life)
Become part of our coastal wildlife monitoring community—learn what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how to report concerns to help keep birds and other coastal wildlife safe.
🛟 Join the Wildlife Jewel Rescue Crew
Help support local wildlife rescue response by assisting with reporting, coordination, and (for trained volunteers) transport support when a bird or other coastal wildlife needs help.
✨ Together, we can turn wildlife observation into action and help protect the Bird Jewels that make our coastline so special.
Some of the magical Bird Jewels we had the delight of observing included Brandt’s cormorants with their striking turquoise eyes, the adult California brown pelican with sky-blue eyes and a vibrant red throat pouch, and the majestic Black Oystercatcher with its bold orange bill and eye-ring. We also enjoyed the intelligent, charismatic Western gull, the precious Heermann’s gulls, and the elegance of Royal and Elegant terns, crowned with their distinctive head crests.
Photo credit: © Wildlife Jewels® / Azi Sharif
We identified an injured Heermann’s gull, documented what we observed, and reported—reminding us that careful monitoring and timely reporting can help save lives. Every wildlife life is precious. 💙 We will share more about her and the other injured wildlife including 2 entangled sea lions that we spotted during our walk through the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Blog soon.
Wildlife Jewels is searching for Beryl, a recently fledged Western Gull in La Jolla with fishing line and a lure wrapped around her beak. Learn how to report a sighting.