River/Riparian birding habitat

Pico Ave/Pico Creek

California · Southwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Pico Ave/Pico Creek is a productive birding destination in California, with 204 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Surf Scoter, Bufflehead, and Red-breasted Merganser 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

California Condor

Gymnogyps californianus

4/17/20267185–7677 San Simeon Creek Rd, Cambria US-CA 35.65389, -121.044042 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

4/5/2026San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

44/17/2026

White-throated Swift

24/17/2026

American Coot

14/17/2026

Killdeer

44/17/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

34/17/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/17/2026

California Scrub-Jay

14/17/2026

American Crow

74/17/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

34/17/2026

Barn Swallow

204/17/2026

House Finch

14/17/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

14/17/2026

Song Sparrow

14/17/2026

Spotted Towhee

14/17/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

14/17/2026

Western Gull

164/8/2026

California Gull

34/8/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

14/8/2026

Cliff Swallow

34/8/2026

Wrentit

14/8/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Pico Ave/Pico Creek for birding?
The best months to visit Pico Ave/Pico Creek for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Pico Ave/Pico Creek?
Notable species at Pico Ave/Pico Creek include Surf Scoter, Bufflehead, Red-breasted Merganser, Mourning Dove, Brandt's Cormorant. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pico Ave/Pico Creek?
Birding at Pico Ave/Pico Creek is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Pico Ave/Pico Creek?
Pico Ave/Pico Creek offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.