River/Riparian birding habitat

Ten Mile River mouth

California · Southwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Ten Mile River mouth is a productive birding destination in California, with 212 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Surf Scoter 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

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

4/16/2026MacKerricher SP--Virgin Creek Beach and all of estuary, otherwise WEST of Haul Rd ONLY1 observed

Elegant Tern

Thalasseus elegans

4/16/2026MacKerricher SP--Virgin Creek Beach and all of estuary, otherwise WEST of Haul Rd ONLY2 observed

Vega Gull

Larus vegae

4/11/202610-Mile Beach N - Inglenook Creekmouth1 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

4/5/2026MacKerricher SP- Pudding Cr to Virgin Cr Beach1 observed

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

4/5/2026MacKerricher SP- Lake Cleone and Campgrounds2 observed

Western Tanager

Piranga ludoviciana

4/4/2026Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

14/16/2026

Mallard

44/16/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

24/16/2026

Turkey Vulture

24/16/2026

Bald Eagle

14/16/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ten Mile River mouth for birding?
The best months to visit Ten Mile River mouth for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Ten Mile River mouth?
Notable species at Ten Mile River mouth include Canada Goose, Mallard, Surf Scoter, Bufflehead, Common Merganser. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ten Mile River mouth?
Birding at Ten Mile River mouth is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ten Mile River mouth?
Ten Mile River mouth offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.