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

Loading map...

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

Marbled Murrelet

Brachyramphus marmoratus

7/19/2026Cayucos Pier1 observed

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

7/10/2026Whale Rock Reservoir, Cottontail Creek arm.1 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

7/9/2026San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Western Gull

47/20/2026

Brown Pelican

27/20/2026

American Crow

17/20/2026

House Sparrow

17/20/2026

California Quail

127/20/2026

Band-tailed Pigeon

27/20/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

17/20/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/20/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/20/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

27/20/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

17/20/2026

Western Flycatcher

17/20/2026

Steller's Jay

17/20/2026

California Scrub-Jay

27/20/2026

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

17/20/2026

Wrentit

17/20/2026

Pygmy Nuthatch

17/20/2026

Swainson's Thrush

17/20/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

17/20/2026

Song Sparrow

37/20/2026

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.