The Binocular Site
Point Reyes, California
Point Reyes claims the prize for most avian diversity in any U.S. National park, with nearly 490 bird species recorded, which includes 45% of species within North America.
Diverse habitats and a location along the Pacific Flyway make this location optimal for many. Here the Snowy Plover and Northern Spotted Owl are highlighted, as their status as threatened is addressed.
Due to habitat loss, the Plovers were listed as threatened in 1993. These beach-dwellers breed from March through September, and unfortunately movement over their nesting areas can flush out parents while leaving chicks exposed to cold wind, sand, and predators.
In 2007, 22 of 28 Plover nests remained protected, with 77% hatching success. Spotted Owls prosper here as well, as their population is monitored and banded, providing extensive research information and working to increase reproductive success.
Swainson's Hawks, White-tailed Kites, and a range of Ducks, Grebes, and Cormorants are found here as well. Look for Western Tanagers, Northern Flickers, Eurasian Collared Doves, California Quail, Cooper's Hawks, and many, many other species here at Point Reyes.
The official bird of California state is the California Quail and you can find a checklist for bird related activities in California here.
Photo credit to Jami Dwyer, used with permission under the creative commons license. You can learn more about the habitat, history and birdwatching opportunities at Point Reyes by visiting the Point Reyes Bird Observatory here.If you've visited Point Reyes, please take the time to share your experience and any tips or insight you have about this California birding location below.
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