Salton Sea - Young Road (west end)

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Salton Sea - Young Road (west end) is a productive birding destination in California, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Northern Shoveler, Common Merganser, and Ruddy Duck 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

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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Shoveler

1002/22/2026

Common Merganser

52/22/2026

Ruddy Duck

202/22/2026

American Coot

102/22/2026

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 - Young Road (west end) for birding?
The best months to visit Salton Sea - Young Road (west end) for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Salton Sea - Young Road (west end)?
Notable species at Salton Sea - Young Road (west end) include Northern Shoveler, Common Merganser, Ruddy Duck, American Coot, Snow Goose. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Salton Sea - Young Road (west end)?
Birding at Salton Sea - Young Road (west end) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Salton Sea - Young Road (west end)?
Salton Sea - Young Road (west end) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.