Lake birding habitat

Swanton Pond and vicinity

California · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Swanton Pond and vicinity is a productive birding destination in California, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Ring-necked Duck, Ruddy Duck, and Anna'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

Purple Martin

Progne subis

7/13/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails2 observed

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

7/13/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails3 observed

Pink-footed Shearwater

Ardenna creatopus

7/13/2026Pigeon Pt.1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

7/12/2026Neary Lagoon1 observed

Black Swift

Cypseloides niger

7/12/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails4 observed

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

7/12/2026Kalkar Quarry1 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

7/11/2026Empire Grade--west of Jamison Creek Rd.1 observed

Cackling Goose

Branta hutchinsii

7/10/2026Westlake Pond1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

57/12/2026

Ruddy Duck

57/12/2026

American Coot

77/12/2026

Western Gull

17/12/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

27/12/2026

Northern Harrier

17/12/2026

American Kestrel

17/12/2026

Black Phoebe

27/12/2026

Barn Swallow

57/12/2026

Cliff Swallow

507/12/2026

Bushtit

157/12/2026

Bewick's Wren

27/12/2026

European Starling

357/12/2026

American Robin

17/12/2026

House Finch

57/12/2026

Purple Finch

27/12/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

17/12/2026

Savannah Sparrow

27/12/2026

Song Sparrow

67/12/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

27/12/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Swanton Pond and vicinity for birding?
The best months to visit Swanton Pond and vicinity for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Swanton Pond and vicinity?
Notable species at Swanton Pond and vicinity include Ring-necked Duck, Ruddy Duck, Anna's Hummingbird, American Coot, Turkey Vulture. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Swanton Pond and vicinity?
Birding at Swanton Pond and vicinity is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Swanton Pond and vicinity?
Swanton Pond and vicinity offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.