Desert birding habitat

Waddell SB

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Waddell SB is a productive birding destination in California, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Mallard, Black Scoter, and Common Goldeneye 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

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

5/27/2026Terrace Pt. and Coastal Science Campus1 observed

Black Swift

Cypseloides niger

5/27/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails5 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

5/26/2026stakeout Indigo Bunting, Swanton Road (2026)1 observed

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

5/26/2026Pescadero Creek County Park4 observed

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

5/25/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails4 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

5/25/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails3 observed

Black Swift (borealis)

Cypseloides niger

5/25/2026Ano Nuevo SP--Visitors Center, Elephant Seals and trails4 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

5/25/2026West Cliff Dr. at Woodrow Ave.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

California Quail

45/27/2026

Snowy Egret

15/27/2026

Brown Pelican

205/27/2026

Turkey Vulture

65/27/2026

American Kestrel

15/27/2026

Common Raven

45/27/2026

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

35/27/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

5/27/2026

Barn Swallow

5/27/2026

Wrentit

5/27/2026

Bewick's Wren

15/27/2026

Swainson's Thrush

15/27/2026

House Finch

45/27/2026

Purple Finch

65/27/2026

Pine Siskin

25/27/2026

American Goldfinch

15/27/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

15/27/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

5/27/2026

Song Sparrow

5/27/2026

Spotted Towhee

15/27/2026

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Waddell SB for birding?
The best months to visit Waddell SB for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Waddell SB?
Notable species at Waddell SB include Mallard, Black Scoter, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, White-throated Swift. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Waddell SB?
Birding at Waddell SB is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Waddell SB?
Waddell SB offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.