Desert birding habitat

Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary is a productive birding destination in California, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Double-crested Cormorant, Great Egret, and Turkey Vulture 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

Western Cattle-Egret

Ardea ibis

5/25/2026S Brewer Rd (Baseline to E Catlett)1 observed

Willow Flycatcher

Empidonax traillii

5/24/2026Veteran's Memorial Park (PLA Co.)2 observed

Hooded Merganser

Lophodytes cucullatus

5/21/2026Roosevelt Ranch (private, no public access)2 observed

Western Sandpiper

Calidris mauri

5/18/2026Lincoln WTP-- West Ponds (restricted access, open M–F, 7:30-3:00)1 observed

Black-chinned x Anna's Hummingbird (hybrid)

Archilochus alexandri x Calypte anna

5/16/2026Private Residence1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

55/21/2026

Wood Duck

25/21/2026

Mallard

15/21/2026

California Quail

35/21/2026

Mourning Dove

35/21/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

15/21/2026

White-faced Ibis

195/21/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/21/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/21/2026

Belted Kingfisher

15/21/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

45/21/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/21/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

15/21/2026

Northern Flicker

25/21/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

15/21/2026

Black Phoebe

15/21/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

55/21/2026

Western Kingbird

25/21/2026

California Scrub-Jay

45/21/2026

Yellow-billed Magpie

55/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary for birding?
The best months to visit Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary?
Notable species at Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary include Double-crested Cormorant, Great Egret, Turkey Vulture, Belted Kingfisher, Nuttall's Woodpecker. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary?
Birding at Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary?
Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.