River/Riparian birding habitat

Salmon Creek mouth

California · Southwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Salmon Creek mouth is a productive birding destination in California, with 210 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Surf Scoter 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

Elegant Tern

Thalasseus elegans

4/18/2026Bodega Bay--Porto Bodega4 observed

Swainson's Thrush

Catharus ustulatus

4/17/2026Salmon Creek Road--from Fitzpatrick Lane to end of public road (including Fitzpatrick Lane)2 observed

Common Black x Red-shouldered Hawk (hybrid)

Buteogallus anthracinus x Buteo lineatus

4/13/2026Santa Rosa Creek Trail and Delta Pond (west of Willowside Rd)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

44/16/2026

Surf Scoter

34/16/2026

Bufflehead

74/16/2026

Semipalmated Plover

64/16/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

84/16/2026

Black Turnstone

64/16/2026

Least Sandpiper

54/16/2026

Bonaparte's Gull

14/16/2026

Ring-billed Gull

24/16/2026

Western Gull

104/16/2026

California Gull

34/16/2026

Glaucous-winged Gull

24/16/2026

Pelagic Cormorant

14/16/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/16/2026

Osprey

14/16/2026

Northern Harrier

14/16/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

44/16/2026

Canada Goose

64/13/2026

Black-bellied Plover

34/13/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

14/13/2026

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