The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub
A calm marsh with grasses and water under soft light

Ventura Settling Ponds

California · Southwest

ModerateOfficial Site View on eBird Directions
Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, sunrise to sunset

About This Location

Ventura Settling Ponds is a productive birding destination in California, with 312 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, and Northern Shoveler among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Canada GooseCinnamon TealNorthern ShovelerBuffleheadRuddy DuckCassin's KingbirdRed-shouldered HawkRed-tailed HawkBelted KingfisherAcorn WoodpeckerOak TitmouseBushtit

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.

  4. 4

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

  5. 5

    Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.

Amenities

Parking
Trails

Nearby Attractions

  • Ventura River Estuary
  • Emma Wood State Beach
  • Ventura Botanical Gardens

More in California

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Mono Lake

Ancient saline lake with millions of migratory birds and surreal tufa towers.

California Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in California →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ventura Settling Ponds for birding?▼
The best months to visit Ventura Settling Ponds for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Ventura Settling Ponds?▼
Notable species at Ventura Settling Ponds include Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, Cassin's Kingbird, Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Belted Kingfisher, Acorn Woodpecker, Oak Titmouse, Bushtit. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ventura Settling Ponds?▼
Birding at Ventura Settling Ponds is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Ventura Settling Ponds?▼
There is no entrance fee at Ventura Settling Ponds. Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
What amenities are available at Ventura Settling Ponds?▼
Ventura Settling Ponds offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.