Winter on Richardson Bay has a quieter, calmer magic. The water is often glassy, the air feels crisp and clear, and the Bay becomes a seasonal home for thousands of migratory birds. From a kayak or paddleboard, you get a front-row seat to this wildlife-rich time of year: gliding quietly through their habitat while taking in some of the most beautiful views Marin has to offer.
Here are a few of the migratory birds you might spot while paddling with us during the winter months.
Sandhill Cranes
Few sights are as unforgettable as spotting a Sandhill Crane standing tall in the wetlands.
These elegant, gray birds (crowned with a flash of red) are among the oldest bird species on Earth, with a history stretching back over 10 million years. They’re known for their powerful calls that echo across the Bay and their graceful courtship dances, which help reinforce lifelong pair bonds.
Why they’re special: Sandhill Cranes mate for life, travel thousands of miles each year, and hold deep cultural significance for many California Native Tribes. Seeing one feels like stepping into a much older rhythm of the natural world.
Snow Geese
When Snow Geese arrive, the Bay feels alive with motion and sound.
These striking white geese migrate south from the Arctic, often arriving in California in October and staying through late winter. They travel in huge flocks, sometimes numbering in the thousands, creating an incredible visual spectacle as they land and take off together.
When to look: Peak sightings typically happen between December and January, especially in wetlands and nearby agricultural areas. From the water, you may catch them resting or flying overhead in their iconic formations.
American Avocets
American Avocets are impossible to miss once you know what to look for.
With long, slender legs and elegant black-and-white plumage, these wading birds sweep their upturned bills side to side in shallow water to feed. They’re highly social and often gather in large flocks, making them a favorite for wildlife lovers.
Why they matter: Avocets are considered an indicator species — their presence tells us the wetland ecosystem is healthy and thriving.
Northern Pintails
Sleek, fast, and beautifully patterned, Northern Pintails are a classic winter duck of the Bay.
Named for the male’s long, pointed tail feathers, these ducks prefer shallow wetlands and calm estuaries — exactly the kind of places we paddle. They’re strong migrators, with some traveling more than 3,000 miles each year.
Fun detail: Northern Pintails have the longest neck of any North American duck, helping them reach food others can’t.
Long-billed Curlews
If you notice a shorebird with an impressively long, curved bill, you’re likely looking at a Long-billed Curlew.
These birds use their specialized bills to probe deep into mud and grasslands for insects and worms. Their haunting calls and distinctive shape make them a memorable sight along the Bay.
Why they’re important: In California, Long-billed Curlews are considered a species of special concern, making each sighting feel especially meaningful.
Why Winter Is One of the Best Times to Paddle
Winter paddling offers a completely different experience on Richardson Bay. The pace is slower. The water is quieter. Wildlife feels closer. And without the summer crowds, it’s easier to relax into the moment.
Our friendly, knowledgeable guides help you feel confident from the very first paddle stroke, pointing out wildlife, sharing local stories, and making sure the experience feels easy and enjoyable — even if it’s your first time on the water.
“Beautiful views, calm water, and so much wildlife — such a great time on the Bay.”
Come Experience It for Yourself
Bird sightings can change with weather and migration patterns, but that sense of calm, beauty, and connection is always there.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful solo paddle, a memorable family outing, or a relaxing way to experience the Bay in winter, there’s nothing quite like seeing it from the water.
Ready to join us?
- Rent a kayak or SUP for a quiet wildlife paddle
- Join a guided tour and let our instructors bring the Bay’s stories to life
