California is a prime bird-watching destination, with a diverse range of habitats and over 500 species of birds that can be seen throughout the state. Here are a few top birding spots in California:
- Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve: Located in Newport Beach, this estuary is a popular stopover for migrating shorebirds, including Snowy Plovers, Willets, and Western Sandpipers.
- Mono Lake: This unique lake in the Eastern Sierra Nevada is home to a variety of bird species, including the iconic Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, which is a key nesting site for Double-crested Cormorants and California Gulls.
- Point Reyes National Seashore: This scenic coastal park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a prime destination for birders, with a wide variety of bird species, including Tufted Puffins, Common Murres, and Pelagic Cormorants.
- Morro Bay State Park: Located on California’s Central Coast, this park offers a chance to see a variety of coastal bird species, including Brown Pelican, Western Gull, and American White Pelican.
- Salton Sea: This large saltwater lake in Southern California is an important stopover for thousands of birds, including American White Pelicans, Snowy Plovers, and Sand Hill Cranes.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: This vast desert park in Southern California is home to a variety of bird species, including the Greater Roadrunner, Cactus Wren, and Gilded Flicker.
- Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area: This scenic area in the Eastern Sierra Nevada offers a chance to see a wide variety of bird species, including the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Black-throated Gray Warbler, and Orange-crowned Warbler.
These are just a few of the many bird-watching destinations in California. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, California is a prime destination for experiencing the beauty and diversity of our feathered friends.