Andree Clark Bird Refuge

Andree Clark Bird Refuge ranks among of the biggest wildlife refuges in Santa Barbara County. It contains a natural 42-acre saltwater marsh and an artificial 29-acre freshwater/brackish lake that drains into East Beach. The salt-imbued wetlands offer safe haven for a diverse population of migratory and resident birds, including common geese and ducks, notably mallards, and less common species, such as black-crowned herons, white egrets, bushtits, and loon-like birds called grebes.

The idea of creating bird refuge was first proposed by the county in the 1920s. The land was donated by Huguette M. Clark in 1928, with the stipulation that the site must be named after her deceased sister, Andree. The two women were the daughters of mining magnate William A. Clark. By 1930, additional funds were raised to complete excavation of the manmade lake.

Today, there is a developed bikeway and a walking path to take visitors around the refuge. Numerous interpretive signs invite self-guided tours of the environs. Waterfowl can be season amid the reds in almost all seasons, making this a popular spot attraction for those traveling to East Beach.

Andree Clark Bird Refuge is located adjacent to the Santa Barbara Zoo and Highway 101. The address is 1400 East Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara, California 93108. Operating hours are from sunrise until 10pm daily, so night viewings of the birds are possible. There is no charge for admission.