Coastal birding habitat

San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank is a productive birding destination in California, with 240 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Guadalupe Murrelet

Synthliboramphus hypoleucus

7/11/2026San Clemente Island--South End Waters4 observed

Black Storm-Petrel

Hydrobates melania

7/11/2026LA County Waters South Of San Clemente Island4 observed

Black-footed Albatross

Phoebastria nigripes

7/11/2026LA County Waters South Of San Clemente Island1 observed

Craveri's Murrelet

Synthliboramphus craveri

7/11/2026LA County Waters South Of San Clemente Island2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Western Gull

67/21/2026

Royal Tern

17/21/2026

Brandt's Cormorant

27/21/2026

Barn Swallow

87/21/2026

House Finch

57/21/2026

Chukar

37/21/2026

Allen's Hummingbird

17/21/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/21/2026

Common Raven

17/21/2026

Bell's Sparrow

17/21/2026

Gambel's Quail

37/9/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank for birding?
The best months to visit San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank?
Notable species at San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank include Sanderling, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Royal Tern, Willet. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank?
Birding at San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank?
San Clemente Island - Lemon Tank offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.