Whelan Lake

In a somewhat remote location on the northern end of the City of Oceanside lies a 73-acre bird sanctuary called Whelan Lake. Bordered by Camp Pendleton and adjacent to the City of Oceanside San Luis Rey Wastewater Treatment Plant, Whelan Lake is a man-made body of water that was used to assist a dairy farm operation owned by the Whelan Family. Ellen Whelan, upon her death in 1985, donated the entire 305-acre property to a Board of Trustees with the understanding that the land was to remain protected and used as a sanctuary for migrating and permanent waterfowl.

The water table in Whelan Lake is fed by tertiary-treated effluent from the San Luis Rey Wastewater Treatment Plant. Tertiary-treated waters, high in nutrients, help promote the growth and sustainability of the many species of plant life. Grassland habitat predominately characterizes the area around the Lake. However, some scrub and chaparral habitats can also be found. Over the next few years, the Board of Trustees will plant native trees in the area, including sycamores, willows, oaks and cottonwoods.

Volunteers from the National Audubon Society assist in collecting information as to the numbers and types of species visiting Whelan Lake. To date, 170 species of birds have been sighted in the area including Canadian Geese, Willowflyer Catcher, Least Bells Vireo and White Pelicans. Resident birds include Egrets and 10-15 different Mallard duck species. At one point in time, Whelan Lake supported various species of fish, however, it remains unclear if these fish stocks still thrive in the Lake due to the large populations of hungry birds.

Whelan Lake does not support recreational uses by humans. It has been preserved to function solely as a sanctuary for resident and migratory waterfowl. The Lake is behind gates to protect the sanctuary and undeveloped area. The public is encouraged to visit but must call 760-722-4887 ahead of time so the gates may be unlocked.