Coastal birding habitat

Clam and Little River State Beach

California · Southwest

Habitat
CoastalRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Clam and Little River State Beach is a productive birding destination in California, with 238 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and river/riparian habitat attracts Western Grebe, Mallard, and Wilson's Snipe 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

Yellow-throated Warbler

Setophaga dominica

4/17/20263480 Airport Road, McKinleyville, California, US (40.969, -124.117)1 observed

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

4/17/2026Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary--Allen Marsh1 observed

Calliope Hummingbird

Selasphorus calliope

4/17/2026Freshwater Farms Reserve1 observed

Elegant Tern

Thalasseus elegans

4/17/2026Hammond Trail--Vista Point6 observed

Red Crossbill (Sitka Spruce or type 10)

Loxia curvirostra

4/17/2026Dry Lagoon1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Hudsonian Whimbrel

184/17/2026

Western Gull

14/17/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/17/2026

Common Raven

144/17/2026

Song Sparrow

14/17/2026

Marbled Godwit

254/14/2026

Great Egret

14/14/2026

Turkey Vulture

64/14/2026

Willet

34/10/2026

Surfbird

184/10/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

204/10/2026

Brown Pelican

104/10/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

14/5/2026

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 Clam and Little River State Beach for birding?
The best months to visit Clam and Little River State Beach for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Clam and Little River State Beach?
Notable species at Clam and Little River State Beach include Western Grebe, Mallard, Wilson's Snipe, Short-billed Gull, Western Gull. The area supports coastal, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Clam and Little River State Beach?
Birding at Clam and Little River State Beach is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Clam and Little River State Beach?
Clam and Little River State Beach offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.