Castaic Lagoon

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Castaic Lagoon is a productive birding destination in California, with 241 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Common Merganser, and Mourning Dove among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

Loading map...

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

Western Kingbird

Tyrannus verticalis

3/6/2026El Cariso Golf Course, Los Angeles US-CA 34.31373, -118.410262 observed

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

2/24/2026Back Yard1 observed

Rough-legged Hawk

Buteo lagopus

2/24/2026Hopper Mountain NWR1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

603/4/2026

Common Merganser

53/4/2026

Mourning Dove

13/4/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

23/4/2026

American Coot

203/4/2026

California Gull

33/4/2026

Western Grebe

143/4/2026

Clark's Grebe

43/4/2026

Turkey Vulture

233/4/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

23/4/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

23/4/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

13/4/2026

Black Phoebe

53/4/2026

Say's Phoebe

23/4/2026

Vermilion Flycatcher

13/4/2026

Cassin's Kingbird

23/4/2026

American Crow

63/4/2026

Common Raven

153/4/2026

Oak Titmouse

13/4/2026

Bushtit

43/4/2026

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 Castaic Lagoon for birding?
The best months to visit Castaic Lagoon for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Castaic Lagoon?
Notable species at Castaic Lagoon include Canada Goose, Common Merganser, Mourning Dove, Anna's Hummingbird, American Coot. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Castaic Lagoon?
Birding at Castaic Lagoon is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Castaic Lagoon?
Castaic Lagoon offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.