The Silicon Valley area is home to a variety of natural and recreational areas, including county parks, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, and the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority.

Notable bird species in the area include herons and egrets, which are often observed in their natural habitats at designated locations like Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve.

The Black-crowned Night Herons, however, are more active at night or in the early evening and morning hours.