River/Riparian birding habitat

Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
River/RiparianWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 268 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, and Northern Shoveler 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

Arctic Loon

Gavia arctica

6/2/2026Moss Landing--Jetty Road, north jetty & State Beach1 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

6/1/2026Moss Landing--Jetty Road, north jetty & State Beach1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Brant

16/1/2026

Gadwall

16/1/2026

Turkey Vulture

16/1/2026

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

16/1/2026

Barn Swallow

6/1/2026

House Finch

6/1/2026

Song Sparrow

6/1/2026

Cinnamon Teal

35/24/2026

Northern Shoveler

25/24/2026

Mallard

45/24/2026

Surf Scoter

25/24/2026

Ruddy Duck

35/24/2026

American Coot

15/24/2026

Black-necked Stilt

105/24/2026

American Avocet

45/24/2026

Killdeer

15/24/2026

Western Gull

105/24/2026

California Gull

105/24/2026

Western Grebe

15/24/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

35/24/2026

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 Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard. The area supports river/riparian, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge?
Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.