Wetland birding habitat

Big Lagoon

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Big Lagoon is a productive birding destination in California, with 214 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Bufflehead, Double-crested Cormorant, and Belted Kingfisher 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

Red Crossbill (Western Hemlock or type 3)

Loxia curvirostra

6/3/20262070 McKinleyville Ave, McKinleyville US-CA 40.94273, -124.110792 observed

California Condor

Gymnogyps californianus

6/1/2026Redwood NP--Lyons Ranch Trail1 observed

Red Crossbill (Sitka Spruce or type 10)

Loxia curvirostra

6/1/2026McKinleyville--Fernwood Fowler home1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

5/31/2026Bald Hills Rd. mi. 0.0 – 0.51 observed

Evening Grosbeak

Hesperiphona vespertina

5/30/2026Prairie Creek Redwoods SP--Ossagon Trail1 observed

Great-tailed Grackle

Quiscalus mexicanus

5/29/2026Big Lagoon County Park1 observed

Townsend's Warbler

Setophaga townsendi

5/29/2026Lady Bird Johnson Grove1 observed

White-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta carolinensis

5/28/2026Redwood NP--Lyons Ranch Trail1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Osprey

15/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Big Lagoon for birding?
The best months to visit Big Lagoon for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Big Lagoon?
Notable species at Big Lagoon include Bufflehead, Double-crested Cormorant, Belted Kingfisher, American Robin, White-crowned Sparrow. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Lagoon?
Birding at Big Lagoon is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Big Lagoon?
Big Lagoon offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.