Coastal birding habitat

MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach is a productive birding destination in California, with 203 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Surf Scoter, and Black Oystercatcher 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

7/17/2026MacKerricher SP--end of Ward Ave Beach and Bluffs1 observed

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

7/10/2026MacKerricher SP—Ward to Pine Grove1 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler (Audubon's)

Setophaga coronata

7/7/2026Wavecut Ranch1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

107/17/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

257/17/2026

Western Sandpiper

107/17/2026

Western Gull

257/17/2026

White-faced Ibis

17/17/2026

Common Raven

107/17/2026

Barn Swallow

47/17/2026

Black Oystercatcher

107/17/2026

Wandering Tattler

27/17/2026

Black Turnstone

27/17/2026

Pigeon Guillemot

17/17/2026

Common Murre

27/17/2026

California Gull

17/17/2026

Pacific Loon

27/17/2026

Brandt's Cormorant

47/17/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/17/2026

Brown Pelican

867/17/2026

Osprey

37/17/2026

Black Phoebe

17/17/2026

Pelagic Cormorant

37/16/2026

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 MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach for birding?
The best months to visit MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach?
Notable species at MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach include Canada Goose, Surf Scoter, Black Oystercatcher, Black-bellied Plover, Killdeer. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach?
Birding at MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach?
MacKerricher State Park - Ten Mile Beach offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.