Coastal birding habitat

Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds)

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds) is a productive birding destination in California, with 250 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Greater Scaup, Common Goldeneye, and Ruddy Duck 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

Black Skimmer

Rynchops niger

5/26/2026Bodega Bay--Gaffney Pt. - includes Marine Lab and residence entrances2 observed

Eurasian Wigeon

Mareca penelope

5/26/2026Doran Regional Park - entrance pond to jetty1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

5/25/2026Doran Regional Park - entrance pond to jetty1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

5/25/2026Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Brant

505/26/2026

Black Oystercatcher

85/26/2026

Western Gull

25/26/2026

California Gull

15/26/2026

Caspian Tern

105/26/2026

Red-throated Loon

65/26/2026

Common Loon

15/26/2026

Brandt's Cormorant

305/26/2026

Snowy Egret

55/26/2026

Great Egret

25/26/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/26/2026

Turkey Vulture

55/26/2026

Osprey

15/26/2026

Common Raven

15/26/2026

Barn Swallow

15/26/2026

European Starling

35/26/2026

Song Sparrow

25/26/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

15/26/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

25/25/2026

American Crow

15/25/2026

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 Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds) for birding?
The best months to visit Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds) for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds)?
Notable species at Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds) include Greater Scaup, Common Goldeneye, Ruddy Duck, Forster's Tern, Mallard. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds)?
Birding at Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds)?
Bodega Bay - north shore (includes rail ponds) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.