Bird Rock (Marin County, California) facts for kids
Bird Rock as of 2009[update]
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 Bird Rock
Location in California
Bird Rock
Location in the United States
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| Geography | |
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| Coordinates | 38°13′48″N 122°59′40″W / 38.23000°N 122.99444°W |
| Total islands | 1 |
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| State | California |
| County | Marin County, California |
Bird Rock is a small, rocky island located off the coast of Marin County, California, in the Pacific Ocean. It's a special place because it's home to many kinds of seabirds. Even though it's tiny, only about 2 acres (the size of two football fields!), it plays a big role for wildlife.
What is Bird Rock?
Bird Rock is basically a large rock formation that sticks out of the ocean. It's found west of a place called Tomales Point, which is in Marin County, California. This county is in the northern part of California, just north of San Francisco. The island is quite small, covering about 2 acres, which is roughly 0.81 hectares.
A Home for Seabirds
This small island is a very important spot for seabirds. It's known as a "seabird colony," meaning many birds gather there to live and raise their young. The island is often covered with a layer of guano, which is a fancy word for bird droppings. This guano can be a source of nutrients for the island's ecosystem.
Who Lives on Bird Rock?
Many different types of seabirds visit or live on Bird Rock.
- Cormorants: These are common birds found on the island. Cormorants are diving birds that catch fish in the ocean.
- Ashy Petrels: These smaller seabirds were found breeding on Bird Rock in 1972. Breeding means they were building nests and having their babies there. Ashy petrels are a type of storm petrel, known for flying over the open ocean.
Bird Rock provides a safe place for these birds to rest, nest, and raise their chicks away from predators that might be found on the mainland. This makes it a vital part of the local marine environment.
