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

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

7/2/2026Tomales Bay SP--Heart's Desire Beach1 observed

Hooded Warbler

Setophaga citrina

7/1/2026Santa Rosa Creek Trail and Delta Pond (west of Willowside Rd)1 observed

Common Black x Red-shouldered Hawk (hybrid)

Buteogallus anthracinus x Buteo lineatus

6/30/2026Santa Rosa Creek Trail and Delta Pond (west of Willowside Rd)1 observed

Short-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus griseus

6/29/2026Bodega Bay--Gaffney Pt. - includes Marine Lab and residence entrances3 observed

American Redstart

Setophaga ruticilla

6/28/2026Santa Rosa Creek Trail - Fulton Road to Willowside Road1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Western Gull

17/5/2026

Caspian Tern

17/5/2026

Common Loon

87/5/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/5/2026

Osprey

17/5/2026

California Scrub-Jay

17/5/2026

Barn Swallow

27/5/2026

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.