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.

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.

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.

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.

An injured sea lion near Pier 39 has a fresh lower‑body wound that rescuers say could be a shark bite. The Marine Mammal Center is monitoring the animal and will only attempt a rescue when it can be done safely.

The San Francisco Zoo euthanized two longtime residents — Eno the lemur and Freckles the penguin — after sudden health declines; postmortem tests are pending.

A BOEM draft would put Pacific waters back on the leasing map. Conservationists and coastal businesses warn the move could threaten tourism, sanctuaries and local jobs.

A Chimney Rock webcam captured two people throwing rocks at a resting elephant seal; park officials are asking for help to identify them. Investigators are reviewing livestream footage.