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

Royal Tern

Thalasseus maximus

4/17/2026San Lorenzo River mouth1 observed

Swainson's Thrush

Catharus ustulatus

4/16/2026Henry Cowell Redwoods SP--Zayante Trail1 observed

Palm Warbler (Western)

Setophaga palmarum

4/16/2026Neary Lagoon1 observed

Cassin's Vireo

Vireo cassinii

4/16/2026Long Ridge OSP--Peter's Creek Trailhead (SM Co.)1 observed

Palm Warbler

Setophaga palmarum

4/16/2026Neary Lagoon1 observed

Black-footed Albatross

Phoebastria nigripes

4/15/2026Monterey Bay pelagic—inshore Soquel Cove (0-2 mi offshore)1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

4/15/2026Swanton Road near Last Chance Road1 observed

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta canadensis

4/14/2026Long Ridge OSP--Peter's Creek Trailhead (SM Co.)1 observed

Black Swift

Cypseloides niger

4/14/2026Swanton Road at Molino Creek1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Band-tailed Pigeon

154/16/2026

American Coot

14/16/2026

Northern Harrier

14/16/2026

Common Raven

14/16/2026

Cliff Swallow

1004/16/2026

House Sparrow

14/16/2026

House Finch

14/16/2026

Song Sparrow

14/16/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

24/16/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

14/16/2026

Black-headed Grosbeak

14/16/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/16/2026

Barn Swallow

314/16/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

14/16/2026

Ruddy Duck

34/14/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/14/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/14/2026

Western Flycatcher

24/14/2026

Black Phoebe

14/14/2026

American Crow

24/14/2026

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.