Wetland birding habitat

Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1)

California · Southwest

Habitat
WetlandLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1) is a productive birding destination in California, with 294 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Gadwall, 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

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

4/17/2026Audubon Williams Sisters Ranch (restricted access)1 observed

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

4/17/2026La Honda Creek OSP (lower)1 observed

Cassin's Vireo

Vireo cassinii

4/16/2026Long Ridge OSP--Peter's Creek Trailhead (SM Co.)1 observed

Swainson's Thrush

Catharus ustulatus

4/16/2026Swanton Road at Old Seaside School1 observed

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

4/16/2026La Honda Creek OSP (lower)1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

4/15/2026Swanton Road near Last Chance Road1 observed

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta canadensis

4/14/2026Long Ridge OSP--Peter's Creek Trailhead (SM Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Bufflehead

14/17/2026

American Coot

24/17/2026

Canada Goose

34/17/2026

Cinnamon Teal

44/17/2026

Gadwall

64/17/2026

Mallard

264/17/2026

Wild Turkey

14/17/2026

Black Turnstone

14/17/2026

Heermann's Gull

14/17/2026

Short-billed Gull

24/17/2026

Western Gull

84/17/2026

California Gull

334/17/2026

Glaucous-winged Gull

14/17/2026

Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid)

14/17/2026

Caspian Tern

134/17/2026

Elegant Tern

64/17/2026

Snowy Egret

14/17/2026

Great Egret

34/17/2026

Northern Harrier

14/17/2026

Bald Eagle

24/17/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1) for birding?
The best months to visit Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1) for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1)?
Notable species at Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1) include Canada Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, Heermann's Gull, Western Gull. The area supports wetland, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1)?
Birding at Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1)?
Pescadero Marsh and Natural Preserve - (North pond,lagoon and marsh trails east of Hwy 1) offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.