The birds, man, of Alcatraz

Alcatraz isn't really known for having birds on it. It's more of a history and architecture thing.

Architecture with some jungle let into it.

You probably wouldn't be that surprised to see a gull on it...


But what about HUNDREDS of gulls (the white dots) fighting over various patches of weed-choked asphalt?

It's true, Alcatraz is actually an important breeding site for Western gulls, as well as Brant's cormorant and Pigeon Guillemots (which nest in abandoned pipes!). I only spotted gulls, but it might be worthwhile to come back in the summer and try to see baby gulls...

As a bonus bird, on the way back, I saw a grackle outside the ferry building. It's a common bird, but I have only seen one once, at a random rest stop in Arizona. So, rare for me.

In case you are thinking the above picture looks like just some boring blackbird, compare it to this picture of an actual boring blackbird from the same tree.

See? ACTION GRACKLE with Long Tail accessories.