Coastal birding habitat

Humboldt Bay - King Salmon

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Humboldt Bay - King Salmon is a productive birding destination in California, with 220 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Mallard, Western Gull, and Eared Grebe 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

California Towhee

Melozone crissalis

5/29/2026Loleta Bottoms - Hawk's Hill Rd1 observed

Black Swift

Cypseloides niger

5/29/2026Hiller Park and Mad River Bluffs2 observed

Cackling Goose

Branta hutchinsii

5/29/2026West End Ct. pond1 observed

Common Nighthawk

Chordeiles minor

5/29/2026MAMU Survey--HM1106, Allen Creek1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

5/28/2026Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary15 observed

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

5/28/2026Copenhagen Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Surf Scoter

105/28/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

15/28/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

55/28/2026

Pigeon Guillemot

15/28/2026

Caspian Tern

25/28/2026

Common Loon

15/28/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

75/28/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

15/28/2026

Great Egret

145/28/2026

Great Blue Heron

105/28/2026

Brown Pelican

205/28/2026

Osprey

15/28/2026

Western Warbling Vireo

15/28/2026

Tree Swallow

45/28/2026

Barn Swallow

55/28/2026

European Starling

55/28/2026

Swainson's Thrush

25/28/2026

House Sparrow

25/28/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

25/28/2026

Savannah Sparrow

25/28/2026

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 Humboldt Bay - King Salmon for birding?
The best months to visit Humboldt Bay - King Salmon for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Humboldt Bay - King Salmon?
Notable species at Humboldt Bay - King Salmon include Mallard, Western Gull, Eared Grebe, Common Loon, Pelagic Cormorant. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Humboldt Bay - King Salmon?
Birding at Humboldt Bay - King Salmon is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Humboldt Bay - King Salmon?
Humboldt Bay - King Salmon offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.