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Salton Sea Bird List

The Salton Sea is California's largest lake, located 40 miles north of the Mexican border. It was once freshwater but has been saturated in the naturally occurring salts from the surrounding rock and is now saltier than the ocean. Over 32,000 acres make up the full park including the sea. This important refuge is a stopping point for thousands of birds making their way down to Mexico and hundreds of native species.

Spring
- Gulls are common spring residents of the Salton Sea.
  
  Common birds in the Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge during the spring season are early migratory birds. Gulls, herons and pelicans are normal spring visitors of the Salton Sea according to the New York Times. Loons inhabit the riparian vegetation during this period. The Yuma clapper rail is a native species that nests in the wetlands of the park during the spring and has been considered endangered since 1967 according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Salton Sea refuge supports 40 percent of the world's Yuma clapper rail population.
Summer
- Late spring migrant birds are found around the Salton Sea into June, according to the refuge. Common summering birds include geese, larks, sparrows and the American kestrel falcon, which stays through winter. Other commonly seen birds include blackbirds, warblers, swallows and various shorebirds. Unfortunately, environmental threats have brought this ecosystem to the brink of collapse according to the University of California Press. Because of the soaring temperatures, humidity and insect population, Southwest Birders recommends bringing a camper if you are visiting during the summer.
Fall
- Geese use the Salton Sea as a stopping point during their migration.
  
  Geese migrate to the Salton Sea in fall and early winter. Their large flocks make great photographic opportunities for nature and wildlife enthusiasts during this season. Quail find cover in thick brushes throughout the park, gulls and ducks float upon the water, and egrets can be seen in the shallow areas. According to Southwest Birders, the end of summer is a common time to spot magnificent frigate birds, wood storks and blue-footed boobies.
Winter
- Egrets are commonly seen at the Salton Sea.
  
  Late fall into early winter is the best time for birdwatchers at the Salton Sea according to the USGS. According to Desert USA, thousands of waterfowl overwinter at the Salton Sea. Some common species include Canada geese, snow geese, American avocets, black-necked stilts, pintails, green-winged teal and eared grebes. The burrowing owl is an endangered species that winters at the Salton Sea and is a delightful sight throughout the refuge.

Animals & Science