The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte

California · Southwest

ModerateView on eBird
Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte is a productive birding destination in California, with 239 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Blue-winged Teal, Cinnamon Teal, and Northern Shoveler among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Blue-winged TealCinnamon TealNorthern ShovelerGadwallAmerican Wigeon

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Stilt Sandpiper

Calidris himantopus

3/3/2026Salton Sea NWR--Unit 1 (no public access north of observation deck)3 observed

Sprague's Pipit

Anthus spragueii

2/28/202692233, Calipatria US-CA (33.1022,-115.4573)1 observed

Mountain Plover

Anarhynchus montanus

2/23/20266005 Lack Road, Calipatria, California, US (33.091, -115.649)47 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.

Amenities

Parking
Trails

More in California

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Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City: The Complete Urban Migration Guide

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte for birding?▼
The best months to visit Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte?▼
Notable species at Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte include Blue-winged Teal, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte?▼
Birding at Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte?▼
Salton Sea - Obsidian Butte offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.