Coastal birding habitat

San Clemente Island - Wilson Cove (town)

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

San Clemente Island - Wilson Cove (town) is a productive birding destination in California, with 237 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts European Starling, White-crowned Sparrow, and Osprey 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

Black Storm-Petrel

Hydrobates melania

7/11/2026San Clemente Island--North End Nearshore2 observed

Cassin's Kingbird

Tyrannus vociferans

7/8/2026San Clemente Island--Catharus Canyon1 observed

Lesser Goldfinch

Spinus psaltria

7/8/2026San Clemente Island--Wilson Cove (cove/seawatch)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-necked Phalarope

27/11/2026

Scripps's Murrelet

27/11/2026

Western Gull

2007/11/2026

Royal Tern

47/11/2026

Black Storm-Petrel

27/11/2026

Pink-footed Shearwater

17/11/2026

Brandt's Cormorant

507/11/2026

Gambel's Quail

37/9/2026

Brown Pelican

127/8/2026

American Kestrel

17/8/2026

Common Raven

47/8/2026

House Finch

207/8/2026

Chukar

57/7/2026

Barn Swallow

37/7/2026

Western Meadowlark

27/7/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/2/2026

European Starling

17/2/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

17/2/2026

Bell's Sparrow

27/2/2026

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 - Wilson Cove (town) for birding?
The best months to visit San Clemente Island - Wilson Cove (town) for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at San Clemente Island - Wilson Cove (town)?
Notable species at San Clemente Island - Wilson Cove (town) include European Starling, White-crowned Sparrow, Osprey, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at San Clemente Island - Wilson Cove (town)?
Birding at San Clemente Island - Wilson Cove (town) 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 - Wilson Cove (town)?
San Clemente Island - Wilson Cove (town) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.