Salton Sea - north end

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Salton Sea - north end is a productive birding destination in California, with 288 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

California Thrasher

Toxostoma redivivum

3/5/2026Rockhouse Truck Trail, Borrego Springs US-CA 33.34323, -116.300791 observed

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

3/3/2026PGA West (restricted access)1 observed

Gray Vireo

Vireo vicinior

3/3/2026Anza-Borrego Desert SP--Clark Dry Lake1 observed

Fox Sparrow

Passerella iliaca

2/24/2026Anza-Borrego Desert SP--Clark Dry Lake1 observed

Abert's Towhee

Melozone aberti

2/24/2026stakeout Abert’s Towhees, San Diego Co. (2024–2026)1 observed

Bald Eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

2/22/2026Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park1 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 Salton Sea - north end for birding?
The best months to visit Salton Sea - north end for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Salton Sea - north end?
Notable species at Salton Sea - north end include Cactus Wren, Greater Roadrunner, Gambel's Quail, Curve-billed Thrasher, Phainopepla. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Salton Sea - north end?
Birding at Salton Sea - north end is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Salton Sea - north end?
Salton Sea - north end offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.