Imperial Dam

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Imperial Dam is a productive birding destination in California, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Lesser Nighthawk

Chordeiles acutipennis

3/6/202613728 South Dorothy Drive, Yuma, Arizona, US (32.63, -114.408)1 observed

Black-chinned Hummingbird

Archilochus alexandri

3/5/2026661 East 32nd Street, Yuma, Arizona, US (32.669, -114.615)1 observed

American Bittern

Botaurus lentiginosus

3/5/2026Imperial NWR (Yuma Co.)1 observed

Plumbeous Vireo

Vireo plumbeus

3/4/2026Cottonwood gallery restoration site2 observed

Western Warbling Vireo

Vireo swainsoni

3/4/2026Yuma East Wetlands1 observed

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

3/4/2026Yuma East Wetlands1 observed

Western Sandpiper

Calidris mauri

3/4/2026Drive by flooded field3 observed

Rock Wren

Salpinctes obsoletus

3/2/2026Senator Wash Reservoir1 observed

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 Imperial Dam for birding?
The best months to visit Imperial Dam for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Imperial Dam?
Notable species at Imperial Dam include Cactus Wren, Greater Roadrunner, Gambel's Quail, Curve-billed Thrasher, Phainopepla. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Imperial Dam?
Birding at Imperial Dam is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Imperial Dam?
Imperial Dam offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.