Lake birding habitat

Clear Lake State Park

California · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Clear Lake State Park is a productive birding destination in California, with 222 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Wood Duck, and Mallard 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

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

5/20/2026RR 11 observed

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

5/20/2026RR 11 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

45/25/2026

Wood Duck

35/25/2026

Mallard

105/25/2026

California Quail

35/25/2026

Mourning Dove

55/25/2026

Vaux's Swift

25/25/2026

American Coot

15/25/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

15/25/2026

Western Grebe

45/25/2026

Clark's Grebe

35/25/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

45/25/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

15/25/2026

Green Heron

15/25/2026

Great Egret

15/25/2026

Great Blue Heron

45/25/2026

Turkey Vulture

65/25/2026

Osprey

35/25/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

15/25/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

85/25/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

35/25/2026

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 State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Clear Lake State Park for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Clear Lake State Park?
Notable species at Clear Lake State Park include Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Clear Lake State Park?
Birding at Clear Lake State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Clear Lake State Park?
Clear Lake State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.