Pasadena Audubon Society

Where to Bird: Shorebirding at San Joaquin Marsh
by Jon Fisher
Thoughts of where to bird in the summer months generally turn to our local mountains. But the summer months along the coast not only offer comfortable temperatures, there are lots and lots of birds to look at as well. June already sees our early returning shorebirds, Wilson’s Phalaropes and Western Sandpipers for example, arriving at favored coastal spots. In addition, small numbers of many other shorebird species remain through the summer as non-breeders.

There is always something to look at in the way of shorebirds. Not only is there a variety of species to observe, it is also a great opportunity to study a variety of plumages within each species. Adults in alternate (breeding) plumage are followed by juveniles. Both then molt into their basic (winter) plumage. The variation in appearance that this causes is often bewildering. Shorebirds are one of our more challenging groups of birds, and studying them early in the season pays its rewards later in the season. Having said that, where to go to watch them?

San Joaquin Marsh is one of the best local spots for shorebirds and one of my favorite places to go birding. The sheer variety of birds that can be found here is what makes this location fun. In addition, a number of rarities have turned up here over the years, so the unexpected is always possible. The marsh is extremely birder friendly too, with viewing areas, easy walking, benches, and restrooms. All things considered, this is one of the finest birding spots along the southern California coast.

Semipalmated, Solitary, Pectoral and Baird’s Sandpipers can almost always be found here in late summer and fall (though it may take more than one or two visits), along with the more common species. Check all of the ponds here as water levels vary and so do optimal conditions for shorebirds. You’ll also find Black-bellied and Semipalmated Plovers, Willet, Long-billed Curlew, Marbled Godwit, Whimbrel, Long and Short-billed Dowitchers, Least and Western Sandpipers, Wilson’s Snipe, Spotted Sandpiper, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Black-necked Stilts and American Avocets. The adjacent riparian areas harbor Yellow-breasted Chats and Bell’s Vireos in spring and summer.

If you visit in spring or early summer, you’ll soon discover that all those little green bird houses are designed for Tree Swallows. Explore all the ponds as well as the weedy and riparian areas on the north and east sides. Herons, egrets, waterfowl, raptors and many songbirds utilize this area at different times of the year.

Any month here can be interesting for the birdwatcher. Least Bitterns are occasional in summer and American Bitterns regular but often hard to find in winter. Look for Sora and Virginia Rails in and near the reed beds. Osprey, White-tailed Kite and Redshouldered Hawks are often spotted in the area. Caspian, Elegant, Least, Forster’s and occasionally Common Terns occur here as do Black Skimmers. If you don’t see Marsh Wrens, you’ll almost undoubtedly hear them. Don’t neglect San Diego Creek (on your left as you drive in) for similar birds.

To get to San Joaquin Marsh, take the 405 Freeway south to the Jamboree exit in Irvine and turn right to Michelson. Turn left onto Michelson and then right on Riparian View to the sanctuary. There is usually ample parking if you get there early. Check the bird sightings board at the entrance to the Audubon Visitor’s Center for up-to-date information.

Birds of the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary from Sea And Sage Audubon Society

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