Desert birding habitat

Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road is a productive birding destination in California, with 213 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Tundra Swan 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-chinned Hummingbird

Archilochus alexandri

7/19/2026Craig’s hood1 observed

Common Yellowthroat

Geothlypis trichas

7/18/2026Marble Hot Springs, Beckwourth US-CA 39.75556, -120.353761 observed

Red-eyed Vireo

Vireo olivaceus

7/10/2026Sierraville (town)1 observed

Tricolored Blackbird

Agelaius tricolor

7/10/2026Sierra Valley--Marble Hot Springs Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

67/20/2026

Cinnamon Teal

67/20/2026

Mallard

67/20/2026

Virginia Rail

167/20/2026

Sora

27/20/2026

American Coot

607/20/2026

Sandhill Crane

27/20/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

157/20/2026

White-faced Ibis

207/20/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/20/2026

American White Pelican

67/20/2026

Turkey Vulture

37/20/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/20/2026

Loggerhead Shrike

17/20/2026

Common Raven

17/20/2026

Horned Lark

57/20/2026

Barn Swallow

87/20/2026

Cliff Swallow

207/20/2026

Marsh Wren

27/20/2026

Sage Thrasher

67/20/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road for birding?
The best months to visit Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road?
Notable species at Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road?
Birding at Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road?
Sierra Valley - Marble Hot Springs Road offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.