Salton Sea
California · Southwest
Moderate
November-April
Free
Sunrise to sunset daily
About This Location
The Salton Sea is California's largest lake and an accidental creation that has become a vital oasis for birds in the Sonoran Desert. Despite environmental challenges, it remains a critical stopover on the Pacific Flyway, hosting enormous numbers of shorebirds, pelicans, and occasional rarities.
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
Blue-winged Teal
Spatula discors
Long-billed Dowitcher
Limnodromus scolopaceus
Tennessee Warbler
Leiothlypis peregrina
Lesser Goldfinch
Spinus psaltria
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Great Horned Owl
Western Bluebird
Violet-green Swallow
Western Gull
Dark-eyed Junco
White-crowned Sparrow
Barred Owl
American Barn Owl
Black-crowned Night Heron
Rufous-crowned Sparrow
Northern Saw-whet Owl
Western Screech-Owl
Wrentit
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Oak Titmouse
Killdeer
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Tree Swallow
Common Nighthawk
Green-tailed Towhee
Birding Tips
- 1
Check the south end near Sonny Bono NWR for the best variety
- 2
Summer heat can be extreme; bring plenty of water
- 3
Visit during spring migration (April-May) for the greatest species diversity
- 4
Winter birding can be rewarding for waterfowl, raptors, and winter finches
- 5
Arrive at dawn for peak bird activity, especially during migration seasons
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
- Sonny Bono Salton Sea NWR
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
More in California
California Birding Guide
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