Lake birding habitat

Owens Lake

California · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Owens Lake is a productive birding destination in California, with 214 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

7/5/202693530, Keeler US-CA (36.5152,-117.9364)1 observed

Cedar Waxwing

Bombycilla cedrorum

6/30/2026Personal residence1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

47/5/2026

White-faced Ibis

27/5/2026

Common Raven

77/5/2026

Marsh Wren

37/5/2026

Savannah Sparrow

67/5/2026

Yellow-headed Blackbird

47/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

207/5/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/5/2026

Gadwall

57/3/2026

Lesser Nighthawk

107/3/2026

American Avocet

30007/3/2026

Long-billed Curlew

1157/3/2026

California Gull

1007/3/2026

Peregrine Falcon

17/3/2026

Cinnamon Teal

107/3/2026

Northern Shoveler

157/3/2026

Mallard

257/3/2026

American Coot

107/3/2026

Black-necked Stilt

117/3/2026

Killdeer

77/3/2026

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 Owens Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Owens Lake for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Owens Lake?
Notable species at Owens Lake include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Owens Lake?
Birding at Owens Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Owens Lake?
Owens Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.