Birds and fireworks don’t mix

By Heather McRea

This week in Coast Lines: Coastal advocates warn that fireworks can impact sensitive coastal bird species.

Plus, Olympic sailing is coming to Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles and the Aquarium of the Pacific has a couple of new residents.

Here’s what’s happening along the Southern California coast.

Fourth fireworks

Coastal advocates are worried fireworks near sensitive habitats could scare off the nesting birds and are encouraging beachgoers to leave that part of their Fourth of July celebrations at home. 

Fireworks let off near the Santa Ana River mouth between Huntington Beach and Newport Beach last year appear to have scared off nesting California least terns.

“The Santa Ana River mouth is a critical breeding site for California least terns, western snowy plovers, and other shorebirds,” said Ray Hiemstra, associate director of policy and projects at Orange County Coastkeeper. “But these birds are incredibly vulnerable to human activity, especially loud noises, dogs off-leash and fireworks. Even well-meaning recreation can have devastating consequences.”  

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Water races

LA28 organizers have announced the final sailing venue plan and it includes Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles.

Both venues offer ideal conditions for both Olympic athletes and spectators, LA28 said, with reliable weather and ocean conditions.

Both locations have a history of hosting Olympic sports, so what will they be hosting this time? 

Read the story.

At home

Long Beach’s Aquarium of the Pacific has welcomed two new penguins, Milo and Inca.

The pair are Magellanic penguins, a species which would normally be living off the coasts of Argentina and Chile. They came to Long Beach from other facilities because the aquarium is a partner in the AZA Species Survival Program for Magellanic penguins.

“We are thrilled to welcome these new penguins into their new home,” said the aquarium’s Megan Smylie. “They represent our commitment to maintaining diverse genetics and well-managed populations.”

Read the story.

What else?

The San Pedro amphitheater got a thumbs up from the LA harbor commission. 
Read the story.

Drones return to Rancho Palos Verdes to celebrate the Fourth of July.

Read the story.

Parking structure opens to help move along $600 million Dana Point Harbor renovation.

Read the story.

On the water

Some of the best young surfers in the country have been battling it out in Huntington Beach this week. And today decides who goes home with National Scholastic Surfing Association national championship titles. 

Read the story.

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