Coastal birding habitat

Bethel Island

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Bethel Island is a productive birding destination in California, with 233 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

5/24/2026Montezuma slough wetlands Dutra Materials private1 observed

Brown Pelican

Pelecanus occidentalis

5/23/2026Northern Sherman Island Levee Road1 observed

Western Cattle-Egret

Ardea ibis

5/22/2026Bradford Island2 observed

Rough-legged Hawk

Buteo lagopus

5/21/20262103 Prestwick Dr, Discovery Bay US-CA 37.89530, -121.591131 observed

Least Bittern

Botaurus exilis

5/21/2026Sherman Island1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

5/17/2026White Slough Wildlife Area (Ponds 9-13)1 observed

Cackling Goose

Branta hutchinsii

5/15/2026Shumway Oak Grove Regional Park3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Rock Pigeon

155/22/2026

Mourning Dove

25/22/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/22/2026

Black Phoebe

15/22/2026

Barn Swallow

15/22/2026

Cliff Swallow

125/22/2026

Northern Mockingbird

25/22/2026

House Finch

25/22/2026

Western Meadowlark

15/22/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

85/22/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

25/22/2026

Black-headed Grosbeak

15/22/2026

Mallard

15/19/2026

California Quail

25/19/2026

Killdeer

25/19/2026

Great Egret

25/19/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

15/19/2026

Northern House Wren

25/19/2026

European Starling

55/19/2026

House Sparrow

15/19/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bethel Island for birding?
The best months to visit Bethel Island for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Bethel Island?
Notable species at Bethel Island include Sanderling, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Royal Tern, Willet. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bethel Island?
Birding at Bethel Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Bethel Island?
Bethel Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.