Wetland birding habitat

Zuma Beach and Lagoon

California · Southwest

Habitat
WetlandCoastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Zuma Beach and Lagoon is a productive birding destination in California, with 254 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and coastal habitat attracts Marbled Godwit, Western Gull, and Brown Pelican 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

Bufflehead

Bucephala albeola

7/10/2026Lake Sherwood1 observed

Swainson's Hawk

Buteo swainsoni

7/6/2026Upper Las Virgenes Canyon OSP1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Shoveler

17/6/2026

Mallard

217/6/2026

American Coot

47/6/2026

Heermann's Gull

117/6/2026

Western Gull

7/6/2026

Elegant Tern

17/6/2026

Brown Pelican

177/6/2026

Mourning Dove

27/5/2026

Great Egret

37/5/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/5/2026

American Crow

47/5/2026

Cliff Swallow

27/5/2026

House Finch

27/5/2026

Surf Scoter

17/3/2026

Allen's Hummingbird

17/3/2026

Willet

17/3/2026

Sooty Shearwater

57/3/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

157/3/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/3/2026

Black Phoebe

37/3/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Zuma Beach and Lagoon for birding?
The best months to visit Zuma Beach and Lagoon for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Notable species at Zuma Beach and Lagoon include Marbled Godwit, Western Gull, Brown Pelican, Surf Scoter, Rock Pigeon. The area supports wetland, coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Birding at Zuma Beach and Lagoon is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Zuma Beach and Lagoon offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.