Gray whales have been seen in San Francisco Bay weeks earlier than usual; researchers are tracking the visitors and training mariners to reduce ship strikes.

A newly opened 547‑acre Sonoma Coast preserve is overflowing into the Bodega Harbour neighborhood, prompting town halls and possible 'No Parking' rules. Neighbors want quick fixes.

San Pablo Reservoir reopens limited launches after a yearlong golden mussel closure. Inspections and 30‑day quarantines will determine which boats can launch.

A mountain lion wandered into Pacific Heights; animal-control teams worked overnight to capture and re-release the cat, and no injuries were reported.

A draft parks strategy would add 87 acres but carries a roughly $1.2 billion price tag, forcing Mountain View leaders to choose between major land buys and neighborhood fixes.

Representatives Huffman and Schiff, alongside the Bay Area congressional delegates, introduced a bill to designate the Bay Area Ridge Trail as a National Scenic Trail, aiming to enhance its status and connect the remaining parts.

The Oakland Zoo announced the humane euthanasia of Lola the tiger due to a severe infection following a limp, underscoring issues in the cub-petting industry.

A coyote was filmed swimming to Alcatraz, a rare occurrence noted by experts and city cruisers with concerns for its wellbeing and survival prospects.

San Francisco invites residents to submit park improvement ideas, funded by the 2020 Health and Recovery Bond, with $6 million available via the Community Opportunity Fund.

Mountain View Police rescued a malnourished sea lion pup, "Babymac," and ensured its care at The Marine Mammal Center, underscoring the department's multifaceted role.

The Sierra Club sued the Interior Department, saying it withheld FOIA records about Secretarial Order 3431 and a QR-code review that led to removed park signage. The case could force disclosure of internal emails and visitor comments.

Researchers warn H5N1 that ravaged seals abroad could threaten northern elephant seals on California beaches as teams ramp up testing, surveillance and small vaccine trials. Local parks urge visitors to keep their distance.

Herz Recreation Center opened this week in McLaren Park, adding an 11,500-square-foot gym, multipurpose rooms and outdoor amenities to Sunnydale and Visitacion Valley.