Coastal birding habitat

Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area

California · Southwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area is a productive birding destination in California, with 231 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Rock Pigeon, Eurasian Collared-Dove, and Allen's Hummingbird 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

Clark's Grebe

Aechmophorus clarkii

5/29/2026Santa Catalina Channel (LA Co., offshore species only)1 observed

Western Grebe

Aechmophorus occidentalis

5/20/2026Santa Catalina Channel (LA Co., offshore species only)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Rock Pigeon

65/29/2026

Western Gull

305/29/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

35/29/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

85/29/2026

Black Phoebe

25/29/2026

House Sparrow

45/29/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

55/27/2026

Spotted Dove

15/27/2026

Mourning Dove

55/27/2026

California Gull

65/27/2026

Brandt's Cormorant

35/27/2026

Northern Flicker

15/27/2026

American Kestrel

15/27/2026

Western Flycatcher

15/27/2026

American Crow

85/27/2026

Common Raven

45/27/2026

European Starling

35/27/2026

Northern Mockingbird

25/27/2026

Heermann's Gull

15/22/2026

Brown Pelican

45/22/2026

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 Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area for birding?
The best months to visit Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area?
Notable species at Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area include Rock Pigeon, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Allen's Hummingbird, American Coot, Double-crested Cormorant. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area?
Birding at Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area?
Santa Catalina Island - Avalon area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.