Lake birding habitat

Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta

California · Southwest

Habitat
LakeRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta is a productive birding destination in California, with 203 species recorded on eBird. This lake and river/riparian habitat attracts Cinnamon Teal, Mallard, and Ring-necked 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

Tricolored Blackbird

Agelaius tricolor

5/24/2026June Lake2 observed

Chukar

Alectoris chukar

5/22/2026Cottonwood Canyon Road, Bridgeport, California, US (38.167, -119.023)2 observed

Plumbeous Vireo

Vireo plumbeus

5/21/2026Goat Ranch Cutoff Rd.2 observed

Fox Sparrow (Slate-colored)

Passerella iliaca

5/19/2026Virginia Lakes Resort1 observed

Fox Sparrow (Thick-billed)

Passerella iliaca

5/18/2026Lundy Canyon Campground (county)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

15/26/2026

Gadwall

905/26/2026

Mallard

225/26/2026

Green-winged Teal

25/26/2026

American Avocet

355/26/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

25/26/2026

California Gull

505/26/2026

Forster's Tern

35/26/2026

White-faced Ibis

95/26/2026

Brewer's Sparrow

15/26/2026

Savannah Sparrow

25/26/2026

Song Sparrow

15/26/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

35/26/2026

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 Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta for birding?
The best months to visit Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta?
Notable species at Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta include Cinnamon Teal, Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Killdeer. The area supports lake, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta?
Birding at Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta?
Mono Lake - Rush Creek Delta offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.