Wetland birding habitat

Stone Lagoon

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Stone Lagoon is a productive birding destination in California, with 213 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Surf Scoter, Bufflehead, and Double-crested Cormorant among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

Loading map...

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

California Condor

Gymnogyps californianus

7/12/2026Bald Hills Rd. (general)1 observed

White-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta carolinensis

7/12/2026Redwood NP--Lyons Ranch Trail2 observed

Evening Grosbeak (Northwestern or type 1)

Hesperiphona vespertina

7/12/2026Across the street from Big Tree (41.37201, -124.01595)1 observed

White-breasted Nuthatch (Pacific)

Sitta carolinensis

7/12/2026Redwood NP--Dolason Prairie Picnic Area1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

7/11/2026Bald Hills Rd. mi. 0.0 – 0.51 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Surf Scoter

607/7/2026

California Quail

17/7/2026

Killdeer

37/7/2026

Snowy Plover

77/7/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

127/7/2026

Least Sandpiper

257/7/2026

Western Sandpiper

557/7/2026

Common Murre

607/7/2026

Heermann's Gull

457/7/2026

Western Gull

507/7/2026

California Gull

157/7/2026

Caspian Tern

167/7/2026

Western Grebe

47/7/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

157/7/2026

Great Egret

17/7/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/7/2026

Brown Pelican

757/7/2026

Turkey Vulture

27/7/2026

Osprey

17/7/2026

Common Raven

47/7/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Stone Lagoon for birding?
The best months to visit Stone Lagoon for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Stone Lagoon?
Notable species at Stone Lagoon include Surf Scoter, Bufflehead, Double-crested Cormorant, Belted Kingfisher, Hairy Woodpecker. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Stone Lagoon?
Birding at Stone Lagoon is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Stone Lagoon?
Stone Lagoon offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.