Desert birding habitat

Butterbredt Spring

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Butterbredt Spring is a productive birding destination in California, with 242 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

California Quail

84/12/2026

Mourning Dove

54/12/2026

White-throated Swift

24/12/2026

Costa's Hummingbird

24/12/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

24/12/2026

Great Horned Owl

14/12/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

24/12/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

14/12/2026

Cassin's Vireo

14/12/2026

Common Raven

14/12/2026

Rock Wren

14/12/2026

Bewick's Wren

14/12/2026

European Starling

14/12/2026

Western Bluebird

14/12/2026

House Finch

84/12/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

44/12/2026

Golden-crowned Sparrow

24/12/2026

Bell's Sparrow

14/12/2026

Lincoln's Sparrow

14/12/2026

California Towhee

24/12/2026

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 Butterbredt Spring for birding?
The best months to visit Butterbredt Spring for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Butterbredt Spring?
Notable species at Butterbredt Spring include Cactus Wren, Greater Roadrunner, Gambel's Quail, Curve-billed Thrasher, Phainopepla. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Butterbredt Spring?
Birding at Butterbredt Spring is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Butterbredt Spring?
Butterbredt Spring offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.