Greco Island facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Greco Island |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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Viewed across the Westpoint Slough
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 Greco Island
Location in San Francisco Bay Area
Greco Island
Location in California
Greco Island
Location in the United States
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| Location | Redwood City, California |
| Area | 817 acres (331 ha) |
| Designated | 1972 |
| Governing body | Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge |
Greco Island is a special wetland island located in Redwood City, California. It's a key part of the larger Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This island is surrounded by water: Westpoint Slough is to its south, and Redwood Creek is to its west. The wide San Francisco Bay borders the island on its north and east sides.
Greco Island's Story
Greco Island got its name from a person who lived there for a long time. After he passed away, the land was sold to the Leslie Salt Company by the Bank of Italy, which had lent money for the land.
In 1969, there were plans to build more things around the Port of Redwood City, like parks, by buying land on Greco Island.
However, Greco Island became part of the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge in 1972. It was one of the first places chosen for this important refuge, along with areas like Fremont and Alviso.
In 2007, a study looked at the island's shoreline. It found that the shore is made of soft mudflats that get covered by water when the tide is high. This muddy shore can easily wear away from waves and boats passing by. Boats from the Port of Redwood City and Westpoint Harbor often travel in the waters near Greco Island.
More recently, people have been worried about sea levels rising. This has led to efforts to restore marshlands in the bay, including the areas around Greco Island. Restoring these marshes helps protect the land from rising water.
Amazing Wildlife on Greco Island
Greco Island is a very important home for many animals, especially those that are endangered.
One of these special animals is the Salt marsh harvest mouse. This tiny mouse lives only in salt marshes like the one on Greco Island.
In 1994, experts confirmed that a pair of Short-eared owls were living on the island. These owls are known for hunting in open fields and marshes.
Harbor seals from the bay also visit Greco Island. They use the island for "hauling-out," which means they come out of the water to rest on land.
Another endangered animal, the California clapper rail, also uses Greco Island and the nearby Westpoint Slough as its home. This bird lives hidden in the marsh plants.
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