What is the best time to visit to see the herons and egrets nesting?
The entire season is good. You can see different stages of development. From late March and through April, the courting rituals among the birds are taking place. In April and May, many eggs and chicks are visible. In June and July, chicks can be seen, raucously begging for food. Some first flights can also be witnessed.

How many nests are there?
Click here for updated information on nesting activities at the heronry.

I notice Martin Griffin Preserve is closed part of the year. Why is that?
Limiting human use seasonally helps us maintain the essential ecological balance for the benefit of wildlife habitats. This ensures a quality nature experience at the preserve. As a nature sanctuary, it is essential that we minimize the effects of human use on the important habitats that support wildlife.

What else is there to do at Martin Griffin Preserve?
There are 8 miles of hiking trails. Kids love seeing the newts and other pond life. There is a bird blind, a display hall and an excellent bookstore. You are welcome to have a picnic at the tables in the ranch yard, but are asked not to bring food on the trails, please.

How much do you charge?
There is no fee to visit the preserve but donations are encouraged as they support ACR's preservation, education and conservation science programs.

Are there guided tours?
The preserve is self-guided. Ranch Guide volunteers are stationed throughout the preserve to answer questions and provide natural history information. Spotting scopes are provided for viewing the nesting colony.

Is there food available at the preserve?
No. People often bring their lunch, and you are welcome to picnic at the tables in the ranch yard picnic area but there is no food available for purchase.

Do we have overnight accommodations for the visiting public?
No.

Can the facilities be rented for weddings and events?
Yes. Please see the Unique Opportunities link on the homepage.

Are you still open if it rains?
Yes.

Are dogs allowed on the preserve?
Sorry, no pets are allowed on the preserve except for service animals, i.e., any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.

There is no smoking on the preserve!