Natural Resources: Wildlife

Long-term monitoring is an important tool in wildlife conservation as it provides a wealth of useful information about ecosystem health, species presence, and population trends over time. The district supports long term monitoring programs for a number of wildlife species. The district has also conducted a limited number of targeted inventories, short term surveys designed to determine the presence or absence of target species.

Marin Wildlife Picture Index (WPI) Project
MMWD is partnering with Marin County Parks, California State Parks, and the National Park Service in a study to improve our understanding of local wildlife. Beginning in September 2014, approximately 100 wildlife cameras were placed throughout eight parks and preserves for a three- to four-month trial period.

“This is a very ambitious project,” said MMWD biologist Janet Klein. “Without support from volunteers and other wildlife researchers, we will have a hard time maintaining the wildlife cameras long enough to compile the data we need to help us address wildlife needs in rapidly changing environments. Citizen Scientists will be key to this project’s long-term success.” To request information on how to join the Citizen Science effort, please contact volunteerprogram@marinwater.org.

Learn more about WPI>>>

Wildlife Known or Likely to Occur on MMWD Lands
MMWD staff compiled the following lists from research reports, staff observations, organized counts (e.g., Christmas bird counts), and expert opinion.

Please note: The information contained in these lists is dynamic and may change over time. MMWD gives no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the data.

Black-throated gray warbler

Black-throated gray warbler from PRBO report for MMWD
For More Information on Butterflies

Checkerspot butterfly

Photo of a checkerspot butterfly

Group of pallid bats

Group of pallid bats on interior roof of Alpine Dam Chlorinator Building

Foothill yellow-legged frog (photo by Lori Gong)

Foothill yellow-legged frog by Volunteer Docent Lori Gong 2013