Both McNabney Marsh and Moorhen Marsh are part of the Peyton Slough Wetlands Complex in the Peyton Slough Watershed. The MVSD wetlands provide habitat for over 125 species of birds with approximately 30 species known to nest here. As many as 25 species of mammals have been documented using the wetlands and associated uplands including the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse. Reptiles, like the western pond turtle and gopher snake, and amphibians like the Pacific chorus frog and slender salamander though not as abundant as many of the birds, can be great fun to look for in the marsh system. Fishing is not allowed but fish watching is approved! Native species include three-spinned stickleback, Sacramento perch, and tule perch.

Visitors have access to McNabney Marsh (via the observation platform), Mondays-Saturdays, 7am-4:30pm. Moorhen Marsh access is available by appointment only during MVSD business hours, Mondays-Thursdays, 7am-4pm, Fridays, 7am-3pm. To make an appointment or special arrangements, contact the Public Outreach Coordinator at rmitchell@mvsd.org. All visitors to Moorhen Marsh must check in and out at the Administration Building.

Download the MVSD Bird Checklist to help you identify these different species of avian visitors to our marshes.

Download a brochure on the western pond turtle here.