Lake birding habitat

Clear Lake

California · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Clear Lake is a productive birding destination in California, with 210 species recorded on eBird. This lake 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

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

5/25/2026Clear Lake SP1 observed

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

5/20/2026RR 11 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

5/20/2026RR 11 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Band-tailed Pigeon

15/31/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

25/31/2026

Mourning Dove

15/31/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

35/31/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/31/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

45/31/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Northern Flicker

15/31/2026

California Scrub-Jay

75/31/2026

Common Raven

15/31/2026

Oak Titmouse

15/31/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

15/31/2026

Northern House Wren

15/31/2026

California Thrasher

15/31/2026

House Sparrow

35/31/2026

House Finch

115/31/2026

Purple Finch

15/31/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

55/31/2026

California Towhee

25/31/2026

Spotted Towhee

15/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Clear Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Clear Lake for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Clear Lake?
Notable species at Clear Lake include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Clear Lake?
Birding at Clear Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Clear Lake?
Clear Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.