Desert birding habitat

Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail is a productive birding destination in California, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Brant, Surf Scoter, and Black Oystercatcher 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

Black Skimmer

Rynchops niger

5/26/2026Bodega Bay--Gaffney Pt. - includes Marine Lab and residence entrances2 observed

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Tyrannus forficatus

5/26/2026Point Reyes National Seashore1 observed

Eurasian Wigeon

Mareca penelope

5/26/2026Doran Regional Park - entrance pond to jetty1 observed

Tennessee Warbler

Leiothlypis peregrina

5/25/2026Pt. Reyes--Nunes Ranch (A Ranch) & Road Forks Pool1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

5/25/2026Pt. Reyes--Nunes Ranch (A Ranch) & Road Forks Pool1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

5/25/2026Doran Regional Park - entrance pond to jetty1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Surf Scoter

205/23/2026

California Quail

35/23/2026

Wild Turkey

65/23/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

35/23/2026

Heermann's Gull

15/23/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

25/23/2026

Brown Pelican

35/23/2026

Turkey Vulture

85/23/2026

Northern Harrier

15/23/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

25/23/2026

Common Raven

45/23/2026

Barn Swallow

5/23/2026

European Starling

45/23/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

5/23/2026

Canada Goose

15/17/2026

Western Gull

85/17/2026

Forster's Tern

15/17/2026

Northern Flicker

15/17/2026

Tree Swallow

45/17/2026

American Goldfinch

25/17/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail for birding?
The best months to visit Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail?
Notable species at Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail include Brant, Surf Scoter, Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstone, Surfbird. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail?
Birding at Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail?
Point Reyes - Tomales Point Trail offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.