Birdwatching in California

California is the third largest and most populous state in United States bordered by Oregon to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, Mexico to the south and Arizona and Utah to the east.
With its staggering array of natural habitats, many National Parks, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, mountains, desert, forest, lakes and coastline it is a birders paradise boasting more than 600 bird species recorded including 105 endemics to North America and 2 state endemics.
The popularity of birdwatching in California reflects in the many Birdingpals willing to help a visiting birder.

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Local Birdingpal Contacts
Local Birdwatchers
Using the Birdingpal resources you must agree to the following: If you contact a local Birdingpal and make arrangement to go birding, you should note it is common courtesy to make sure you show up for the appointment. If for any reason you are unable to do this, the least you must do is contacting the local Pal right away.
Please note that most Birdingpals are serious birdwatchers. It is a privilege to contact them, and your message should reflect it. A local Pal does not get paid, but should he/she offer to take you out birding, using their own vehicle, it would be courteous to pay for the fuel. A lunch and/or a small gift would also be appropriate, something as simple as a souvenir of your country, or a pin from your local birding club.

Shortcuts to Local Pals in major cities:
Hollywood Los Angeles Monterey Palm Springs Sacramento San Diego San Francisco
Santa Cruz Professional Guides

Initial Last Name Area Available Language
D Lee Alameda Anytime English
I am past president of Napa-Solano Audubon and enjoy taking people birding in the Bay Area, Sierras, nearby ocean, and Central Valley.
R Wyna Anaheim Anytime
F Gray Antelope Anytime English
some Spanish
I recently retired from employment as a biologist for the California Department of Fish and Game. I am interested in birding with visitors to California and also birding with Birdingpals in other states.
S Bentall Aptos Anytime English/a little French
We have incredible birding in our area! I have contacts in this area, bird walks,etc.
C Moyer Arcata Weekend English
Arcata is on the Coast 6 hours drive north of San Francisco. We have a variety habitats - marsh, dune forest, beach, Redwood forest, fields, ocean, bay, and more.
G Friedrichsen Arcata Anytime English
I've been an active birder for 40 years and would enjoy sharing our area with guest from abroad.
M McQuerrey Bakersfield Anytime
S Williams Bakersfield Anytime
M Schwartz Berkeley Weekend
D Dash Berkeley Anytime English
Fantastic birding around the Bay Area - loads of different microclimates for varied species sightings. I'm not an expert, but rather a novice for life. I keep learning all the time. Happy birding!
S Remley Big Bear Lake/San Bernardino Mountains Anytime
D Batzler Carlsbad Anytime English
Started birding in my forties and now recently retired and in my early sixties. Enjoy the natural world, including birds, mammals, insects, butterflies etc. as well as capturing them with my digital camera. Carlsbad is a coastal community in one of the better bird counties (San Diego) in the U.S.
S Dryden Carmel Anytime English
Un poquito Espanol
I have been birding for about 10 years and know almost all of the birds and the best birding sites on the Monterey Peninsula, and can identify most local birds by sound. Monterey County is one of the birdiest counties in the USA, with a wide variety of habitats -- shore, wetlands, forests, etc.
P Wiggins Carpinteria/Santa Barbara Weekend English
I am an experienced birder and live near Santa Barbara, California. The annual Christmas bird count regularly lists this area as one of the top five locations for bird diversity in the United States. Besides birding, I am a volunteer at our local seal rookery (wildlife protection), and I previous worked at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden where I learned about native plants. I wouldn't consider myself an expert naturalist, but I enjoy hikes and the outdoors and like sharing my interests with others.
B Byerley Cavinal Weekend English
A begining birdwatcher, I work full time but have some weekdays off.
L Petrulias Cazadero Anytime
L Krasnovsky Chatsworth Anytime
M Skram Chico Anytime
S Kirn Chico Anytime
D Koenig Chico Weekend English
some Spanish
I am a biologist. I am interested in mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and plants. The area in which I live has riparian, wetland, grassland, oak forest, coniferous forest, and alpine ecosystems. The Altacal Audubon Society and the CSU,Chico Bird Club hosts free birding field trips within the area.
R Peterson Chico/Sacramento Anytime English/Spanish
E Mayer Corte Madera Anytime English/Spanish
D Mehta Daly City Anytime
T Colborn Davis Anytime English
R Keister Davis Weekend English
S Elliott Davis Anytime English
I have just moved to the area and look forward to exploring the wildlife.
C Kisling Dorris(Klamath Basin) Anytime English
D Jaffe El Portal Weekend English
intermediate Spanish
I have lived and worked in the Sierra Nevada of CA for about 13 years. Currently, (as of April, 2010), I will be working with Yosemite National Park. My schedule may be flexible, so email with enquiry.
K Amstutz El Portal Anytime English
little German
I live in Yosemite National Park. Great birding as the elevation ranges from 2000 feet to over 13,000 feet above sea level (500-4000m). Mono Lake is near, accessible in summer months. This is a must for birders as it is a migration stopover for many species. A great area all around!
Birds here in Yosemite are in the beginnings of Spring Showing-their-stuff season. Watched a robin gathering nesting materials and hummingbirds, chickadees, kinglets, Northern Flickers, Song Sparrows, Red-winged Blackbirds and many more displaying and singing their hearts out! Black-headed Grosbeak also seen and heard singing today! Four woodpeckers...ahhh. It is beginning!
J McKenzie El Segundo Weekend English
I live in So. California not to far from LAX and the beach areas. I like to bird the Del Rey Lagoon and Ballona Freshwater Marsh on a fairly regular basis. Occasionally some of the neighboring parks such as Sand Dune Park and Pollywog Park. I'm looking for a birding buddy to do birding field trips with, especially the ones offered by the Los Angeles Audubon Society.
J Poole Emeryville Anytime English
enough Italian to get along
I live right next to San Francisco Bay (on a peninsula). I've been birding for 25 years.
V Calhoun Encinitas Anytime English/French
Spanish
Docent at Batiquitos Lagoon in Carlsbad and San Elijo Lagoon in Cardiff. Excellent birding locations in north San Diego county!!!!!
K Stockton Foothill Ranch Weekend English/Spanish
Happy to share some prime Southern California birding spots with visitors.
K McNew Fresno Weekend
P Palisoc Fresno Anytime English/Tagalog
Fresno is known for agriculture land.
J Sooter Garberville Anytime English/Spanish
200 miles north of San Francisco, just off hwy101. Community park with bird checklist and trails nearby (1mile), a good stop on the way to Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Arcata Marsh, Godwit or Aleutian Goose Festivals.
J Olsen Grass Valley Anytime
J Shower Greenville Anytime English
A little Spanish
We have a nice studio apartment that is available to share with birding/flyfishing guests, that is located in N. CA. (Sierras). We are part of the Pacific Flyway and welcome visitors to our home and studio. There are excellent birding and fishing opportunities. We area near Lassen Nat. Park, Sierra Valley, Numerous lakes and streams and the northern part of the Great Central Valley (which has quite a number of protected birding areas). The stay at our studio would be without cost. Birding visitor(s) would be our guest(s)and we are avid birders. Our phone # is 530-284-6856.
D Studebaker Hollister Anytime English/some German
I am a Registered Nurse who enjoys the birding opportunities of the Central Coast area of California. I live only 30 minutes from the Pinnacles National Monument (one of the locations where the California Condors are being released and are seen frequently) and not far from the Elkhorn Slough on the Pacific Flyway.
H Sabin Hollywood Weekend English
a bit of French
I have been watching birds all my life, but always in a very casual way, so I won't necessarily be able to ID everything, but I love meeting new people and sharing my city.
Z Loman Eureka, Humboldt County Anytime
M Taylor Irvine Anytime English/a little
Japanese/Chinese
Have birded for the last 50 years, over 40 in southern California and have led field trips to areas throughout southern California for Audubon chapters and personalized groups. My website is: http://www.tsuru-bird.net
T Harrison La Canada Weekend
K Johnson La Canada Weekend
M Alderson Laguna Beach Weekend English
I have been a backyard birder for many years. Very familiar with the local song and sea birds. When traveling, I always try to add to my lifelist. Think this is a wonderful site. Hope many people can connect and enjoy new discoveries.
R Carlson Lake Tahoe(summer only) Anytime
J Ivanov Lawnfale Anytime English
Life long birder/naturalist who works as a biologist in the environmental compliance field. Nearby birding places within an hour or less drive include: shorelines, wetlands, coastal scrub, chaparrel, riparian, desert, and montain habitats.
C Hawley Lincoln Weekend
M Fuhs Lodi Anytime English
We have 10 acres of easy birding, The Mokelumne River and the delta are a 20 minute drive, 330 bird species in this county, 70 nest here. Sacramento airport is 45 minutes away, Amtrak and Greyhound stop in Lodi. This is a great area to bicycle as well.
E Pandolfino Loomis Anytime
K Robertson Los Altos Weekend English
Los Altos is located 30 miles south of San Francisco on the peninsula. Extensive birding opportunities are available, including shore, wetlands and forest environments. Birds of Northern California is a useful guide. Also Sibley's Birds of the Western United States.
S Wells Los Angeles Anytime
J Raskin Los Angeles Anytime
C Taylor Los Angeles Anytime English
I have been birding with my dad since I was 8 years old. I also enjoy bird and wildlife photography: http://www.kiwifoto.com
J Drury Los Angeles Anytime English/Spanish
I know the birds of the wetlands nearby (Bolsa Chica, Malibu) and the Santa Monica Mountains.
E Alvarez Los Angeles Anytime English
minimal Spanish/
French
I have birded for years - am a moderate birder not a twitcher - I have traveled extensively and bird wherever I go. If I can be helpful to someone, I would be happy to do so.
Dr. H Walter Los Angeles/Santa Monica/Malibu Anytime English/German
Italian
some French/Spanish
Early morning and late morning for trip to Malibu Lagoon for common shore and water birds of sandy and muddy Pacific shore of southern California; ideal for beginning birders and photography. Terns, gulls, plovers, ducks, sandpipers, etc.
C Almdale North Hills, Los Angeles Anytime English
Except for the local mountains, summer is the worst time for birding in the Los Angeles Southern California area. The migrants wintering birds are gone and the deserts are very hot.
D Norton Topanga, Los Angeles Anytime
E Uyeki McKinleyville Anytime
M Kotin Malibu/Los Angeles Anytime English
D Willey Mammoth Lakes Anytime English
I live in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. Beginning in March when the Mt. Bluebird arrives and the greater sage grouse begin to gather on their leks we have birds non-stop. Many Neo-tropical migrants pass through our mountains and many stay and nest before heading north. I live at 8200 feet,(2400 meters) and near Mono Lake and the eastern entrance to Yosemite N.P. Close by to my home is a unique geo-thermal area called Hot Creek. In the summer many raptors nest in the area.
C Vaughn Ukiah/Mendocino County Anytime English
R Little Milpitas/San Jose Areas Weekend
J DeLeon Mission Viejo Anytime English
basic Spanish
Retired and enjoy birding in the spring and early fall. I live in Orange County not far from the coast and Saddleback Mts. Not as strong on shore birds as I am on land birds.
J Rudesill Modesto Anytime English
I live in the Central Valley of California which is a winter flyway for many waterfowl and Sandhill Cranes. We have several wildlife refuges nearby that are full of birds in the winter time.
J Herr Moraga Weekend
S Brown Los Osos/Morro Bay Anytime English/French
Great birding area. Brant Geese, waterfowl and hawks in winter.
J Royer Los Osos/Morro Bay Weekend English
I live on the edge of Morro Bay and have actively birded in this beautiful area since 1980. September - May, it is easy to see over 100 species in a day. Winter: waterfowl, shorebirds, and owls plus inland wintering hawks, eagles, and Mountain Plovers. Spring: a good variety of migrating warblers,etc. and Allen's Hummingbird as well as breeding LeConte's Thrasher. Summer: breeders such as MacGillivray's Warbler, Lazuli Bunting, Black-chinned Sparrow, Black-chinned Hummingbird, Olive-sided Flycatcher, etc. Fall: good for passerine migration and pelagics. Local resident species include Wrentit, Yellow-billed Magpie, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, etc. Condors are seen 1 1/2 hours drive north of here. I have led bird trips in California for over 30 years and am available many weekends and some weekdays. Local whale watching and Elephant Seal viewing are also recommended. Local events include the Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival in January and the local Big Sit on the second Sunday in October where we always see over 100 species from one spot during that one day. If visiting California for the first time, combine a visit here with the Kern Valley Nature Festival in May or a visit to Yosemite in the Summer.
B Adams Monterey Anytime English/French
Frequent Big Sur and Elkhorn Slough.
J Angelo Newark Weekend English
I Live near the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge. I'm an avid birder with about 7-8 years worth of birding to my experience. Yet I still feel an amateur with many aspects. I have three young children who enjoy meeting other kids. My kids are 9, 5, and 3.
B Messmore Oakland, near San Francisco Anytime English
I travel a lot, but happy to help whenever I can.
E Gierson Oakland Anytime English
Lesbian Birder in Northern CA.
R Dailey Orinda Anytime English/some Spanish
Intermediate birder familiar with local birding sites. Best birding in April/May.
B Mantell Palm Springs Anytime English/French
Spanish/Hebrew
I will be working in New Zealand (and birding, of course) from Dec. 12, 2009 through the end of March, 2010 and therefore sadly with not be available to go birding with visitors. There are many fine places to bird in the area, including Big Morongo Canyon Preserve(in Morongo Valley http://www.bigmorongo.org/), Salton Sea and the Imperial Valley( http://www.imperial.edu/~birds/ ) Coachella Valley Wild Bird Center in Indio http://www.coachellavalleywildbirdcenter.org/ and the San Jacinto Wildlife area http://www.sjwa.info/ (please note that duck hunting days are to be avoided Sat. and Wed. in hunting season).
The best local birding is at the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve: http://www.bigmorongo.org/ which is located in the "high desert" about a 1/2 hrs drive from Palm Springs. See bird list on web site. There are free guided bird walks throughout the year, please see "BIRDS" section of the web site. The Vermillion Flycatcher is the signature bird of the Preserve and is very easy to find at the adjacent Covington Park (multiple breeding pairs present from March-October). Morongo Canyon Preserve (please note, guided bird walks are not given daily as stated in the news story, see above).
Other possibilities would be birding at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (http://www.pstramway.com/), a cable car that leaves PS and in 12 minutes takes one to a mountainous habitat at about 8500 ft. elevation. The birding here is best during the summer. Good for White-headed woodpecker, ClarkÂ's nutcracker.
Another very good place to bird is at the Salton Sea and adjacent Imperial Valley (http://www.imperial.edu/birds/ and http://fog.ccsf.cc.ca.us/~jmorlan/imp.htm) about 1 and 1/2 hrs southeast of PS. Consult "A Birder's Guide to Southern California" by Brad Schram (published by the ABA) for a suggested itinerary.
In Indio there is the Coachella Valley Wild Bird Center http://www.coachellavalleywildbirdcenter.org/index.shtml which is located adjacent to a water treatment facility and a man-made wetlands area. Birding is available there everyday, but call first. A small donation to the Center is suggested. The number is on the web site. Best in spring, winter or fall, very hot and exposed in the summer.
The Coachella Valley Preserve is another site. This is a good site for Sage sparrow and a very reliable place for Phainopepla, Gnatcatchers and Gambel's quail. Overall there are not a large number or variety of birds here, but worthwhile nevertheless. Bird around the oasis, south along the wash, then hike the sandy trail to the lagoon, sand dunes and associated oasis. The driving instructions on the above web site are a bit unclear. From the Ramon Road exit from the 10 interstate, travel east then follow instructions. Very hot during the summer months.
The San Jacinto Wildlife Area, 45 minutes west of PS is very good as well, particularly in the winter. Many raptors and water-related birds. Good for Mountain Bluebird. Can be reached from Palm Springs by traveling west on the 10, then south on Hwy. 79 to Ramona expressway, turning right at traffic signal. Travel west to Davis Rd.(traffic signal), then right again several miles to Wildlife Area (again on the right; the first buildings you see). Please note, that in the winter (duck hunting season) the Area is closed to birders on Wednesdays and Saturdays. There is also a day use fee of $2.50/person.
Also check out nearby Bridge Road, also a right off Ramona expressway (between Hwy. 79 and Davis Road). Stop at the dairy on the right (feeding cows just off the road). Good spot for Tricolored Blackbirds. Also Mountain Plovers in the fields.
Mystic Lake is a vernal lake just north of Bridge road. To reach the lake continue northeast on Bridge road which will dead-end at Gilman Springs road. Turn left here. Carefully look to the left as you drive for an unmarked turnoff. Just off the road to the left you will see a closed gate with a dirt road bypassing the gate. Turn left here. Very easy to miss. Located about 0.2 miles after the turn on to Gilman Springs. The lake is just to the north. Very good for Mountain Bluebirds along this dirt road. The lake can have shorebirds, gulls, White Pelicans, etc. depending on the time of year and if water is present. In summer the lake may be dry. Please note that as of November 5th, there is no water in the Lake. Also no Bluebirds seen. Many Savannah Sparrows, however.
A quickie birding spot in Palm Springs proper is located at the Mesquite Golf Course. From the intersection of Ramon Rd. and Farrel, travel south on Farrel and park on the street on the right immediately after passing the condo. development and reaching the golf course. At this point you should see a walking/biking trail with public access along the north edge of the golf course. Walk towards the mountains (west) cross over a small bridge, then walk along the runoff channel on the right until you reach a fence. Then retrace your steps back to your car.
I can also suggest two short walks in the neighborhood where I live:
1) http://maps.google.com/maps?f Chino Canyon Rd, Palm Springs, Riverside
The above link is to Google maps. Park at the intersection of W. Chino Canyon and Via Norte. Walk west on Chino Canyon, then turn right at the "TA" junction, continuing on Chino Canyon until road dead ends. From here a dirt path continues west into the desert. You can walk here as desired and/or turn around and walk east until reaching Panorama, turn right, proceeding down hill. Turn right at W. Cielo and walk until road dead ends, then back to Panorama and down the hill to your car.
The above link is to Google maps. Park at the intersection of W. Chino Canyon and Via Norte. Walk west on Chino Canyon, then turn right at the Â"TÂ" junction, continuing on Chino Canyon until road dead ends. From here a dirt path continues west into the desert. You can walk here as desired and/or turn around and walk east until reaching Panorama, turn right, proceeding down hill. Turn right at W. Cielo and walk until road dead ends, then back to Panorama and down the hill to your car.
2) Another short hike. http://maps.google.com/maps?f Los Robles and Via Vadera, Palm Springs
Drive to the junction of Los Robles and Via Vadera, turn right (north) on Los Robles and drive to the top of the hill, turning left on Delores Ct. as the road dead ends. Park on the right near dead end. Find trail just east of a large smoke tree and boulder and walk downhill parallel to mountain nearby towards chain-link fence. Good area for rufous-crowned and black-throated sparrows. Farther along fence there is an opening which leads to a flat desert habitat. Walk as far as you want, then retrace steps back to car. Walking and driving to/through both there pass through interesting Palm Springs neighborhoods with interesting architecture and a few historical homes (Elvis slept here).
A new area for birding (as of 2008) is the Whitewater Preserve which is located in a beautiful canyon located about a 25 minute drive north of Palm Springs. Not overly birdy but worthwhile nevertheless. http://www.wildlandsconservancy.org/twc_preserve_whitewater.html Please check website for driving instructions.
For further information I can be reached at 760-3237259 or cell 760-4643892
P Rouzer Palo Alto Weekend
N Teater Palo Alto Anytime English
South San Francisco Bay and the surrounding area has many birding hot spots, from the Bay, to the valley floor, to the surrounding foothills. We are blessed with abundant open space. Birders see about 300 different species each year.
W Bousman Palo Alto/San Jose Anytime
W Zimmerly Paradise Anytime English
E Stonick Pasadena Weekend
K Lehr Patterson Anytime
C Spaid Petaluma, Two Rock Anytime
R Cimino Pleasanton Weekend
M Brady Potter Valley Anytime English
some Spanish
World birder as well as local.
J Coumoutso Rancho Cucamonga Anytime
J Cash Redding Anytime English
I am just getting into studying birds, especially birds of prey. I have a great appreciation for them and hope to learn more. I love to watch them soar!
R Bruun Redding Weekend English
Norwegian
I live 30 miles east of Redding in the community of Shingletown. Lassen Volcanic National Park is 20 minutes from our house.
M Baker Redlands Anytime English
Southern california!! Near mountains, desert, ocean, and the Salton sea.
A Eisner Redwood City/SF Peninsula Anytime
S Mencher Redwood City Anytime English
Active birder in San Francisco peninsula area. I know the area quite well. Interested in bird photography. Retired so time relatively available. Usually out birding with friends on Saturday, could bring a guest, so birdingpal time better midweek.
K Guse Sacramento Weekend
B Mendenhal Sacramento Anytime English/Spanish
M Getty Sacramento Anytime
C Allen Sacramento Weekend
E Berntsen Sacramento Weekend English
wife(birder also)
speaks Spanish
I am a hydrologist with a passion for wildlife/bird watching. Our geographic area includes numerous wildlife refuges within a 1 hr drive. We are located in the Sacramento Valley, part of the Pacific flyway.
G Upchurch Sacramento Anytime English
The California Delta area. Center stage for migratory birds.
D Nail Fallbrook/San Diego Anytime English
I live in Fallbrook 60 miles north of San Diego, but I also bird San Diego, so folks from overseas also can contact me. Some people that come into Los Angeles can also contact me, since I am south of LA and able to take them out in Riverside and San Bernadino Counties.
L Heinz San Diego Anytime
W Arnn San Diego Weekend English/y poquito espanol muy mal
San Diego County is the second 'birdiest' county in the USA.
J Christiansen San Diego Anytime English
We see a great selection of migrating waterfowl in our lagoons, on the shore and along the San Diego River (during the winter months). I just returned from Sanibel Island off the west coast of Florida, with many, many beautiful birds. Many birds were the same as we have here, but the difference was they were not shy and we could walk right up to them. In San Diego, we have hummingbirds all year, at least 4 types. Weather in San Diego is gentle all year, with very little rain.
M O'Reilly San Francisco Anytime
C Evenhouse San Francisco Weekend English/French
Spanish
D Diller San Francisco (Bay Area) Anytime English/German
French/Spanish
C Okon San Francisco Weekend English
some German
I'm happy to point visiting birders to areas where they can experience the beautiful and diverse wildlife habitat of San Francisco and the Bay area. I also encourage visitors to check out goldengateaudubon.org to find out about birding trips.
S Loarie San Francisco Anytime English/Spanish
I'm a native of Northern CA, ecologist by training.
J Brodkin San Francisco Anytime English
Birding about 15 years in San Francisco, Bay Area and Point Reyes. Do not drive.
M Shulman San Francisco Anytime English
I am retired.
J Ritchie Concord/San Francisco Anytime English
Concord is 30 miles inland from San Francisco. I have been birding for about 20 years, but a lot of my experience has been in Australia. I belong to my local birding club, and I enjoy many of their field trips.
C Cummings Napa/San Francisco (Bay Area) Weekend English/Japanese
G Kinsley San Gabriel Weekend English
I am a member of the Pasadena Audubon Society
J Cole San Jose Anytime
M Stiles San Luis Obispo County Weekend
D Worland San Simeon Anytime
N States Santa Barbara Anytime English
Have been birding for many years, I know all Western bird calls and have guided small groups. I bird in my local area as much as possible and at Mammoth Lakes where I have a condo. I like to travel and bird. Santa Barbara has many good bird sites.
M Thompson Santa Barbara Anytime English/Spanish
D Das Santa Clara Anytime English
I am interested in Birding, Wildlife Watching and Photography. I live and work close to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Palo Alto Baylands Park, Shoreline Park, Stevens Creek Park.
B McLaughlin Santa Cruz Anytime
T Newberry Santa Cruz Anytime English/French
G Meyer Santa Cruz Anytime
P Brown Santa Cruz Anytime
L Selman Santa Cruz Anytime English
I am a Bird photographer and birder. Interested in showing other interested photographers around the area. Visit my website http://MostlyBirds.com.
S Phukan Santa Cruz Anytime English
Spanish/Italian
Hindi/Urdu
Bengali/Persian
I am a mid-level birder, but I know the central coast of California quite well; I am also a foodie, so if you are looking for good eats to celebrate a good sighting of a local bird, I can definitely help with that. The best days for me to go out birding are Fridays and Saturdays. Thursdays may also work.
D Vander Pluym Santa Cruz/Ventura Anytime
J Deacon Santa Maria Weekend English
some Spanish
The Central Coast of California is an amazing birding area. The Santa Maria area, Santa Barbara, Lompoc and Morro Bay are all within easy driving distance. It is conceilvable to see 100 or more species in day.
K Rodriguez Santa Rosa Anytime English
A lot of parks, wetlands. Great for birding or just hiking.
T Cummings Santa Rosa Anytime English
some Spanish
The area I live in is surrounded by state parks, so there is an abundance of wildlife.
D Rasmussen Scotts Valley Anytime English
Born and raised in Monterey Bay, relocated throughout the Pacific flyway, returned retired to Santa Cruz, CA. An intermediate birder for 50 years. Back packer, hiker and inland kayaker. Married to an awesome newby!
W Kalwies Sebastopol Anytime English/Spanish
Coastal farmland and redwoods. Great area for birding. A must for any Birdingpal coming to the North Bay area.
A Armstrong Sunnyvale Weekend English
East Coast transplant living in the San Francisco Bay Area. Great birding here.
A Oddo Truckee Anytime English
Truckee is 20 minutes from Lake Tahoe at and above 6000'. We have many woodpeckers including the Pileated and lots of Finches, Sparrows and Mountain Bluebirds. Although we have less birds that winter-over, we do have many spring and summer visitors. I am an avid but not professional bird watcher.
R Foote Ukiah Anytime English/Spanish
German/Swiss German
Active in local Peregrine Audubon Club. Two hours north of San Francisco Bay Area.
A Sheehey Weldon Weekend English
very limited Spanish and French
Master Naturalist/Photographer. Information on area at my website...www.natureali.org Outreach Director - Audubon Kern River Preserve. Information on preserve at: http://kern.audubon.org
D DesJardin Ventura Anytime
J Jardine Walnut Creek(San Francisco) Anytime
J Friedberg Watsonville, Santa Cruz to Monterey area Weekend English
some German
Several sloughs in the Watsonville area provide excellent wetlands birding, while inland birding also is available at Watsonville parks and lakes. I am a beginning-intermediate level birder, with much more enthusiasm than expertise. My wife and I are only available on Sundays.
J Hughes Westchester Anytime English
Retired, new to birding. Began backyard bird feeding but wish to expand interest and appreciate assistance in learning.
L Richter Yolo County Anytime English
some Spanish
Birder, artist, homemaker, kittenpetter, Quaker, radio host*, TV show producer*, garden enthusiast, letter-writer, Arboretum docent, teacher/tutor, founder of several clubs including "ATC Exchange of Northern California" and "Internet Users Group", problem solver, woman.
(*= shows on local public access stations).
D Myers Yorba Linda Anytime

Professional Guides
If you contact a professional Birdingpal guide you must be prepared to pay a fee for guiding services.

Initial Last Name Area Available Language
S Huber Chico Anytime English
I love birds and I love showing people birds! I am a professional guide and have led groups in many western states. My home is in northern California and I specialize in northern and central California tours and day trips. I would be delighted to show you the birds of Graylodge Wildlfe area, Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, Honey Lake and the greater sage-grouse leks in Lassen county. In central California my second home is in Morro Bay where we can easily see over a hundred species a day. From Morro bay it is an easy trip to Carizzo plain for mountain plovers and Maricopa for LeConte\'s thrasher. No place in the U.S. can match California for diversity of species and habitats within a single state.
My rates are $200 per day for one, a mere $50 per person for each additional person, plus gas (and food and lodging on multi-day trips)for northern California, depending on dates rates may be slightly higher for central California trips. Allow me to show you our great birds and a great time!
S Sosensky Los Angeles Weekend English
Welcome to the joys of birding in Southern California. Each of our coastal counties has checklists of more than 400 species. Our inland counties get great desert and Mexican species difficult to find elsewhere. The ABA/Lane Birdfinding Guide A Birder's Guide to Southern California by Brad Schram lists more than 200 specialties, of which 182 are visible either on or from land. This book is highly recommended as a first resource for planning your birding in SoCal, especially planning your target species list.
If you're basing your birding trip out of the Los Angeles/Orange County area, SoCA Birding Guides can help you get your target birds. Guides Jim Abernathy and Steve Sosensky have been leading groups weekly for several years. We have each recorded more than 400 species in one year in California many times. This sort of success takes knowing where, when, and how to find the more difficult species in the area.
Whether your target birds are in the mountains, at the sea shore, in the desert, or anywhere in between, we can take you to the optimum locations. You can use your own vehicle or hire our SUVs (required for some San Bernardino Mountains species), and we'll pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. For large groups, we can also arrange for van rental at the going rate.
Whatever species are on your hit list, SoCA Birding Guides can personalize a day or more to fit your needs, depending, of course, on the seasonality of the birds.
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K Dailey Arcata Anytime English
Humboldt County is a birder's paradise. Nearly 500 species have been recorded here, more than in most states. We have lots of public land and miles of unspoiled coastline. Allow me to share it with you. We can go after target species or simply go birding. I will tailor a customized outing to suit your (group's) wishes.
I have been guiding for about ten years and have many satisfied clients. I can provide references and customer feedback on request.
My rates are $100/half day, $175/day, and $300/two days. Longer trips and trips to other areas can be arranged.
M Kincheloe Fountain Valley Anytime English
Currently: Help with the first Friday bird census at San Joaquin Wildlife Refuge, with Sea and Sage Audubon. Volunteer with Upper Newport Bay Naturalists and Friends. I am a certified naturalists with this group, which means I have gone through their 10 week training about Upper Newport Bay. I have taught bird classes and have given a bird lecture to the Orange County Natural Museum group representing this group. Bird Class 1982-1997. I taught bird a class with partner Eric Brooks. Class was held a South Coast Botanic Gardens on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. We had beginners to intermediates in our class. We held a lecture during the week followed by a field trip on the weekends. Sometimes we would go one overnight trips on the weekend. Field trips included Salton Sea, Morongo Valley, Bolsa Chica, Central Park in Huntington Beach, San Joaquin Wildlife Refuge, Upper Newport Bay and many other locations around southern California.
First Sunday birds walks at South Coast Botanic Gardens 1978-1996. I led a group of birders around the gardens on the first Sunday of the month. We would compile a list after every walk and report any unusual species.
Education: Humboldt State 1973-1975 B.S. in wildlife management. Current Memberships: American Birding Association, Western Field Ornithologists, Sea and Sage Audubon, Upper Newport Bay Naturalists and Friends. Misc.: Compiled checklist for the South Coast Botanic Gardens. Founding member of the Palos Verdes Audubon Society. Wrote an article for the local newsletter 1981-1987 “BIRDS OF THE PENINSULA” which documented rare and unusual bird sightings in the South Bay area. Did field work for Point Reyes Bird Observatory by walking the beaches looking for dead birds and reporting back to them on a regular basis. Have participated in numerous bird surveys including many Christmas counts (1978-present). References: Eric Brooks Motmots(AT)aol.com Jess Morton jmorton(AT)igc.org Dave Roelens birderdave(AT)hotmail.com
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R Fournier Monterey Anytime English
Monterey Birding Adventures offers year-round birding activities in a beautiful natural setting. Shaped by various landscapes, there are a variety of distinct different habitat zones and microclimates conducive to wintering and breeding birds alike. As a result, Central California has excellent diversity year round with over 450 species possible providing an outstanding birding experience. Come explore this extraordinary landscape.
Monterey County, bordered to the east by the Gavilan and Mustang Ranges and the west by the thundering Pacific Ocean, is in the heart of it providing a heaven for many resident and neo-tropical breeding birds. Bird California's second largest wetland, Elkhorn Slough or bird Big Sur, Monterey, Carmel Valley, Point Lobos, Garrapata State Park or Santa Cruz. Few destinations match the quality of environment and eco-tourist's opportunities of the Central Coast. Extended or over night tours are available to Morro Bay, Point Reyes, Yosemite and the East Slope, Yuba Pass and the Sacramento Wildlife Refuges.
A native Californian, I was raised in Southern California moving to the San Francisco Bay area and subsequently to Monterey (Elkhorn Slough) where I have now resided for the past 20 years. I am an avid birder and have a full appreciation for all aspects of nature.
Monterey Birding Adventures was established in 1998 and I operate personalized individual and small group tours. My goal is see that you have a positive and memorable experience.
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D Edelstein Novato Anytime
N Weeden San Francisco Anytime English
Explore the magnificent coasts, rich marshlands, deltas, majestic mountains, great rivers & surprising deserts of California in search of birds, wildlife & spectacular scenery. Nature Trip offers year around adventures focusing on the over 500 species of birds & over 200 species of marine & land mammals that reside or visit the golden state. Before you leave your heart in San Francisco, grab the opportunity to see & experience California’s wildlife.
Eddie Bartley: An avid naturalist and a published wildlife writer and photographer, and resident of San Francisco, California for over 25 years, Eddie has extensive local knowledge of wildlife and bird watching locations. Eddie has a passion for wildlife and has traveled extensively, birding and exploring the wilds in many parts of the world. In addition to leading groups for Nature Trip, Eddie also shares his time teaching about birds with the Golden Gate Audubon Society and conducting research with the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, studying the Pacific migration of hawks.
Noreen Weeden: In the field, Noreen's keen observations skills brighten even one of our famous fog filled summer days. Active in Golden Gate Audubon’s Conservation Committee, she participates in San Francisco Bay wetlands restoration and monitoring. Noreen is involved with the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory (GGRO) assisting in raptor monitoring and helps the Hungry Owl Project to promote natural predators instead of pesticides and rodenticides.
On all trips, we provide transportation to & from pre-arranged point of departure in San Francisco as well as any tolls, park or preserve fees that may be encountered. Half-day trips (4 to 5 hours): You are picked up in San Francisco to start our half-day adventure. The trip itineraries are based on current weather, tides & recent sightings of wildlife. You will get a checklist of local birds & mammals. We’ll provide high quality binoculars, spotting scopes & field guides for the group to share during the trip. We will also bring along delicious snacks & beverages.
Contact us regarding Half-day excursions (maximum 6 guests per van).
Full day trips: You are picked up in San Francisco. A full day excursion allows you to discover much more of the wild things the greater San Francisco Bay Area has to offer. Vegetarian lunch is provided.
Contact us regarding Full-day excursions (maximum 6 guests per van).
Multi-day Trips: If you have 3 or more days to spend, then get set for real Wild West adventures of the sort that can make memories of a lifetime. Witness fascinating wildlife migrations, stunning landscapes and experience this diverse region! Contact us for more information on a Multi-Day Trip as the prices vary based upon locations visited, number of days, and season.
Visit our web site for full details.

Local Information
Name Description
Audubon, California Club
Western Field Ornithologists Club
Altacal Audubon Society Club
Buena Vista Audubon Club
Conejo Valley Audubon Society Club
Eastern Sierra Audubon Society Club
El Dorado Audubon Society Club
Fresno Audubon Society Club
Golden Gate Audubon Society Club
Kerncrest Audubon Society Club
Los Angeles Audubon Society Club
Madrone Audubon Society Club
Mendocino Coast Audubon Society Club
Marin Audubon Society Club
Morro Coast Audubon Society Club
Ohlone Audubon Society Club
Palomar Audubon Society Club
Palos Verdes/South Bay Audubon Society Club
Pasadena Audubon Society Club
Peregrine Audubon Society Club
Redwood Region Audubon Society Club
Sacramento Audubon Society Club
San Bernardino Valley Audubon Society Club
San Diego Audubon Society Club
Santa Barbara Audubon Society Club
Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society Club
Santa Cruz Bird Club Club
Sierra Foothills Audubon Society Club
Whittier Audubon Society Club
Yolo Audubon Society Club
Audublog, conservation news and notes Blog
Latest Sights RBR
San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory Banding
Golden Gate RaptorObservatory Club
Godwit Days Festival
Aleutian Goose Festival Festival
Central Valley Birding Symposium Festival
Mono Basin Bird Chautauqua Festival
Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival Festival
Flyway San Francisco Bay Festival
Bird Guide Sites
Monterey Bay Sites
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve Sites
New River Wetland Wetlands
Joe Morlan's, Birding California Sites
Kendric C Smith's Palo Alto Sites
Birding Hotspots around the world Festival
Kern Valley Photos
Shearwater Journeys Pelagic
Breeding Bird Atlas
NABA Orange County Butterflies
Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia California
Local weather Yahoo
Electronic maps Google
Find lowest prices for field guides, books, maps etc.
Field guides recommended by Birdingpals
Printable bird check list
Trip Reports from California
Steve Sosensky's guide to Southern California

Last update 30/08/2010