Coastal birding habitat

Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY is a productive birding destination in California, with 284 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Mallard, Surf Scoter, and Bufflehead 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

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Tyrannus forficatus

5/26/2026Point Reyes National Seashore1 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

65/27/2026

Surf Scoter

35/27/2026

California Quail

45/27/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

55/27/2026

Pigeon Guillemot

15/27/2026

Western Gull

255/27/2026

Pacific Loon

15/27/2026

Common Loon

25/27/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

35/27/2026

Brown Pelican

45/27/2026

Turkey Vulture

55/27/2026

Northern Harrier

15/27/2026

California Scrub-Jay

15/27/2026

Barn Swallow

15/27/2026

Bushtit

25/27/2026

Wrentit

25/27/2026

Bewick's Wren

25/27/2026

European Starling

35/27/2026

House Finch

25/27/2026

American Goldfinch

45/27/2026

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 Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY for birding?
The best months to visit Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY?
Notable species at Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY include Mallard, Surf Scoter, Bufflehead, Red-breasted Merganser, Western Gull. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY?
Birding at Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY?
Campbell Cove and Hole in the Head - ONLY offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.