Bird Watching in California
California offers an incredible variety of bird habitats, from coastal wetlands and beaches to forests, deserts, mountains, and urban parks.
Habitats to explore
Popular birding areas
- ● Coastal wetlands
- ● State parks
- ● National forests
- ● Urban parks
Species to know
Birds you may encounter
Start with these species when exploring California.
American Robin
Turdus migratorius
The American Robin is one of North America's most familiar birds. Its orange-red breast and habit of searching lawns for worms make it especially easy for beginners to recognize.
Northern Cardinal
Cardinalis cardinalis
The Northern Cardinal is one of the most recognizable backyard birds in North America. Males are famous for their brilliant red plumage, while females have a warm reddish-brown appearance.
Blue Jay
Cyanocitta cristata
The Blue Jay is a bold, intelligent, and highly recognizable bird with vivid blue coloring, a prominent crest, and a loud call.
See a bird you don't recognize?
Use our beginner-friendly identification tool to narrow down what you saw using simple characteristics.
Identify a Bird