San Bernardino County Museum Director Robert McKernan will explore the wildlife of the Salton Sea in a lecture on Saturday, March 5, 2011, at the Victor Valley Museum in Apple Valley at 2pm. The presentation, scheduled in the museum’s community room, is free to the public.

The Salton Sea is the largest inland surface water body in California and has been one of the state’s most productive sport fisheries. The sea is considered one the most significant stop-over locations along the Pacific Flyway. The Salton Sea is a vital part of the Rio Colorado Delta region, including the northern Gulf of California, and contains some of the highest biological diversity in the southwestern United States.

This is particularly true for birds. To date, 402 native and 5 non-native bird species have been recorded in the Salton Sea area, including about 100 breeding species. In addition, the sheer number of birds using the Salton Sea at various times of the year is particularly noteworthy.

“The Salton Sea supports one of the most diverse bird populations in the United States, with more than 400 species,” said Robert McKernan. “It is one of the most impressive areas in the nation for observing wintering bird life.” An ornithologist, Robert McKernan has conducted research at the Salton Sea for more than 30 years and has led hundreds of field trips to the area.

Part of the San Bernardino County Museum system, the Victor Valley Museum is at 11873 Apple Valley Road in Apple Valley. The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities. For more information, call (909) 307-2669 or visit www.sbcountymuseum.org.