Lake birding habitat

Lake Hennessey

California · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Lake Hennessey is a productive birding destination in California, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, and Ruddy Duck 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

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

7/7/2026Hudeman Slough Wetlands (formerly Hudeman Slough)1 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

7/6/20261662 Aetna Springs Lane, Pope Valley, California, US (38.66, -122.473)2 observed

Ferruginous Hawk

Buteo regalis

7/4/2026Silverado Resort (restricted access)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

67/11/2026

Mallard

37/11/2026

California Quail

17/11/2026

Eared Grebe

17/11/2026

Western Grebe

27/11/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

27/11/2026

Black Phoebe

27/11/2026

California Scrub-Jay

17/11/2026

Oak Titmouse

17/11/2026

Violet-green Swallow

47/11/2026

Bushtit

67/11/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

27/11/2026

Song Sparrow

17/11/2026

California Towhee

17/11/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

27/11/2026

Wood Duck

27/7/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

17/7/2026

American Coot

17/7/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

87/7/2026

Clark's Grebe

97/7/2026

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 Hennessey for birding?
The best months to visit Lake Hennessey for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Lake Hennessey?
Notable species at Lake Hennessey include Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, Ruddy Duck, California Quail, Anna's Hummingbird. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lake Hennessey?
Birding at Lake Hennessey is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lake Hennessey?
Lake Hennessey offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.