Lake birding habitat

Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin

California · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin is a productive birding destination in California, with 233 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, 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

Dark-eyed Junco

Junco hyemalis

7/14/2026Hafey Farms Market - Ortega roadside3 observed

Hutton's Vireo

Vireo huttoni

7/14/2026Hafey Farms Market - Ortega roadside1 observed

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

7/12/2026Lake Elsinore--south levee and back basin1 observed

Common Loon

Gavia immer

7/8/2026Lake Perris--Bernasconi entrance1 observed

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

7/8/2026Lake Perris--Bernasconi entrance1 observed

Western Tanager

Piranga ludoviciana

7/6/2026De Luz1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

247/12/2026

Cinnamon Teal

187/12/2026

Northern Shoveler

17/12/2026

Gadwall

17/12/2026

Mallard

1007/12/2026

Ruddy Duck

167/12/2026

Rock Pigeon

67/12/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/12/2026

Mourning Dove

47/12/2026

Virginia Rail

17/12/2026

Common Gallinule

77/12/2026

American Coot

97/12/2026

Black-necked Stilt

677/12/2026

American Avocet

437/12/2026

Killdeer

37/12/2026

Long-billed Curlew

17/12/2026

Long-billed Dowitcher

127/12/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

17/12/2026

Willet

17/12/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

87/12/2026

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 Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin for birding?
The best months to visit Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin?
Notable species at Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin include Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Mallard, Ruddy Duck, American Coot. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin?
Birding at Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin?
Lake Elsinore - south levee and back basin offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.