Quail Lake

California · Southwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

Fall Winter Spring

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Quail Lake is a productive birding destination in California, with 243 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Cinnamon Teal, 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

Cinnamon Teal Gadwall Mallard Ring-necked Duck Greater Scaup

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Purple Martin

Progne subis

7/7/202693243, Lebec US-CA 34.82559, -118.808724 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

California Quail

87/19/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

17/19/2026

Wrentit

17/19/2026

Phainopepla

17/19/2026

California Towhee

27/19/2026

California Scrub-Jay

17/19/2026

Mallard

257/19/2026

Ruddy Duck

127/19/2026

American Coot

447/19/2026

Caspian Tern

27/19/2026

Western Grebe

27/19/2026

Common Raven

87/19/2026

Lark Sparrow

127/19/2026

Song Sparrow

17/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

247/19/2026

Tricolored Blackbird

47/19/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

17/19/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

87/19/2026

California Condor

27/7/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

27/7/2026

Birding Tips

1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in California

Salton Sea

Desert oasis lake critical for Pacific Flyway shorebirds despite environmental challenges.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Pacific Coast peninsula with 490+ species and a magnet for rare vagrants.

Mono Lake

Ancient saline lake with millions of migratory birds and surreal tufa towers.

California Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in California →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Quail Lake for birding?▼

The best months to visit Quail Lake for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.

What birds can I see at Quail Lake?▼

Notable species at Quail Lake include Cinnamon Teal, Gadwall, Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at Quail Lake?▼

Birding at Quail Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Quail Lake?▼

Quail Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.