From Birding Sites in San Diego County; Bill McCausland and SDAS

1 Dairy Mart Ponds
Description	The Pond is a remnant of an old sand mining operation and is now managed by the San Diego County Parks Dept. — in turn, part of the large Tijuana River Valley Regional Park on the U.S.-Mexican border. Winter, spring, and early summer are good for birding. Other areas in the valley not on private land may be accessible to birders and may produce some interesting birds. They are particularly productive during migration seasons—August to October and April to June. There is potential for Solitary Sandpipers at the Pond or at the nearby Tijuana River , the Sod Farm or any nearby shallow body of fresh water in early fall . Late spring can bring Least Bell’s Vireo, A few Bell’s Vireos are still present in early fall. Yellow-Breasted Chat and Blue Grosbeak are to the west of the Pond in late spring and early summer. Black-headed Grosbeaks, Yellow Warblers, American Goldfinches, Great-tailed Grackles, Osprey, a variety of terns, American and Least Bitterns, a variety of migrant warblers and vireos may be found near the Pond. White-tailed Kites may be found in the nearby fields. Male and female Northern Cardinals were observed nesting to the west of the pond in the recent past and male Cardinals are observed regularly.
Directions	Take I-5 south past Imperial Beach to the Dairy Mart Road exit. Turn right (south) on Dairy Mart Road and proceed abouth 100 yards to the ponds. Park anywhere along the road or in the parking area just past the Pond.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy to moderately strenuous hiking. Often hot from summer to early fall. Early mornings more comfortable. Bring water.
Other Species	Western Grebe (W)	Pied-billed Grebe	Black-crowned Night Heron	Great Blue Heron

	Green Heron	Great Egret	Snowy Egret	Cattle Egret (P)
	Duck var. (W)	Swallow var.(Sp S)	Common Yellowthroat	Marsh Wren
	Magpie Jay	Hutton's Vereo
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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2 Santee Lakes
Description	One of the better birding spots in the county largely because of all the lakes and adjoining habitats and open space of Miramar Air Station and Mission Trails Regional Park. Ring-necked ducks (W), Ospreys, Golden Eagles, Wood Ducks (one of the premier breeding sites in the county) and Tricolored Blackbirds can be expected. Downy Woodpeckers are fairly dependable, as are Red-shouldered Hawks, Belted Kingfisher, Acorn Woodpeckers and Cliff (S), Barn (Sp), Violet-green (Sp), Tree and Rough-winged Swallows. Zone-tailed Hawks show up here off and on and Hooded Mergansers have been fairly dependable in the past few winters at the far north ponds. Winter as well as fall and spring migrations are especially rewarding.
Directions	From Mission Gorge Road in Santee, turn left on West Hills Boulevard, go under the freeway, and proceed to Carlton Oaks Drive. Turn right and proceed about a mile to park entrance on left. Also, Highway 52 can be taken eastward to Santee. Take Mast Boulevard exit just before Mission Gorge Road, go under the freeway to the left and proceed about one mile to the overpass over Lake 2. Turn right and go a short distance to Carlton Oaks Drive. Turn right, go a short distance, and watch for the entrance to the park on the right.
	detailed map
Hiking	Moderate hiking. Vehicle entry fee. Restrooms, water, picnic tables.
Other Species	Osprey	Nuttall's Woodpecker	Phainopepla	Duck varieties (W)
	Great-tailed Grackle	Cassin's Kingbird	Myrtle Warbler (W/Sp)	Audubon's (W)
	Cedar Waxwing (W)	Ruby-crowned Kinglet (W)	Brewer's Blackbird	Common Snipe (W)
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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3 Old Mission Dam
Description	This impressive river gorge may be lush with vegetation and combined with the vast open fields above the dam and some chaparral, should produce a good variety of birds. In spring and summer, Least Bell's Vireo, Yellow-breasted Chat, Blue Grosbeak, Black-headed Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting, and Yellow Warbler are possible. Other possible species are Rock, Canyon and Berwick's Wrens, Rufous-crowned Sparrow . Reasonably good birding in winter with wintering species such as White-crowned and Golden-crowned Sparrow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Audubon's Warbler, White-tailed Kite, and Say's Phoebe.
Directions	Park in the parking lot at Old Mission Dam in Mission Trails Regional Park. Take Mission Gorge Road north to the main entrance. This is Father Junipero Serra Trail and has numerous speed bumps and a speed limit of 15 mph. The road doubles back to Mission Gorge Road and is accessible from the Santee end as well. Gates at either end don’t open until 8 a.m. Turn left (or right if coming from Santee) and proceed several miles to the parking lot on the left.
	detailed map
Hiking	Moderately strenuous. Plan for hot weather in summer and early fall. Bring water. Drinking fountain and portable restrooms.
Other Species	Hutton's Vireo	White-throated Swift	Common Raven	Loggerhead Shrike
	Tree Swallow (S)	California Gnatcatcher	Black and White Warbler (Sp/F)	Black-chinned Sparrow (S)
	Western warblers (M)	Warbling Vireo (M)	Black-headed Grosbeak (S)	Flycatchers (S)
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	M-In migration

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4 San Elijo Lagoon
Description	A good spot to find early fall migrants, especially Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs (low tide), Barn Swallows, Phalaropes (high tide), and the remote possibility of Baird's and Stilt Sandpipers (high tide). Otherwise, an excellent birding locale year-round. Good for shorebirds at low tide. Variety of gulls, terns, egrets, herons, other birds attracted to a lagoon. American and Least Bitterns are possible. Clapper, Sora, and Virginia Rails are possible in winter. Rare pelagics sometimes enter from the ocean. Gnatcatchers are accessible from the south side trail beginning at the top of the hill.
Directions	Take I-5 to Lomas Santa Fe Drive in Solana Beach. Go west less than one mile to Rios Avenue. Turn right (north) and go all the way to the end of Rios. Park at the end of the street near the barricade.
	detailed map
Hiking	East hiking. Warm in summer, mild in winter. No restrooms or water.
Other Species	Hutton's Vireo	Royal Tern (W)	Elegant Tern (S/F)	White-faced Ibis
	Brown Pelican	White Pelican (P)	Double-crested Cormorant	Great-blue Heron
	Great Egret	Snowy Egret	Horned Grebe (P W)	Marsh Wren
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	S-Summer	F-Fall	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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5 San Diego River Estuary
Description	A tide that becomes progressively lower throughout the morning is desirable if one plans to spend a few hours birding; it makes ideal mudflats for shorebirds. Low tide is best to see a variety of shorebirds if only birding for a short while. Winter months are best for ducks and shorebirds. A good staring point is the bicycle and jogging trail on the north access road ( South Shores Park Road ) accessible from Sea World Drive . Better lighting is available in the morning hours from the trail on the south of the channel that can be accessed by walking across the Sports Arena bridge from the north. Sometimes one can simply drive in from an exit ramp from I-8 if the gate is open.
Directions	Take I-8 west to the exit for Mission Bay Drive/Sports Arena Boulevard. Go north (right) on Ingraham, exit at Sea World Drive and proceed to the access road. From I-5, take Sea World Drive west to the access road.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking. Restrooms and water across Sea World Drive at South Shores Park..
Other Species	Numerous ducks (W)	Clapper Rail	Sandpipers (W)	Dunlin (W)
	Red Knot (W)	Long-billed Curlew (W)	Whimbrel (W)	Marbled Godwit (W)
	Black Skimmer	Elegant Tern (Mar-Dec)	Caspian Tern	Great Egret
	Snowy Egret	Little Blue Heron	Great Blue Heron	Avocet
	Black-necked Stilt	Black-bellied Plover (W)	Western Gull	Ringed-bill Gull
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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6 Famosa Slough
Description	A very special preserve. Now that it has been cleaned up and protected, it has been attracting many sought-after species. Little-blue Herons are regularly seen here. Clapper Rails have nested. Hooded Mergansers have been observed in winter. Widgeons, teals, and ducks are abundant in winter. Avocets and Black-necked Stilts are nearly year-round residents.
Directions	Take I-8 west following the lanes to “Beaches.” Go to the end of the freeway and turn onto Nimitz Boulevard. Go a short distance to West Point Loma Boulevard. Proceed about a mile and watch for the slough on the right. Park on Famosa Boulevard or West Point Loma Boulevard.
	overhead photo and trail map
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking along the trail beside the slough or channel. No drinking water or restrooms.
Other Species	Great Egret	Snowy Egret	Great Blue Heron	Duck varieties (W)
	Forster's Tern	Least Tern (S)	Belted Kingfisher	Blackbird varieties
	Common Yellowthroat	Cliff Swallow (S)	Brown Pelican	Willet
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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7 Silverwood Wildlife Sanctuary
Description	SPECIAL NOTE: Silverwood was destroyed by a forest fire in October, 2003. Vegetation recovery has begun and structures are being rebuilt. The sanctuary currently only open for guided tours on Sunday by reservation through the San Diego Audubon office. Until the vegetation has made more of a recovery, birding is limited to a few species. Previous to the fire, ground level bird baths, bird houses, and feeding stations drew birds to the observation area. This is a productive area for migrants during spring migration. Nesting is active in spring. Cooper's Hawks are often visible. Look here for the latest status.
Directions	Take I-8 east to Highway 67 and go north to Lakeside. Exit at Mapleview and go east to Ashwood. Turn left and go north as Ashwood changes to Wildcat Canyon Road. Go 4.8 miles (note the milage markers) and watch for the yellow mailbox and drive on the right. Turn into the entrance road and go a short way to the parking area.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy to moderately strenuous hiking. Usually hot from late spring to early fall. Bring water.
Other Species	Oak Titmouse (N)	Cooper's Hawk (N)	Pacific-slope Flycatcher (N)	California Quail (N)
	Spotted Towhee (N)	Hummingbirds	California Towhee (N)	California Thrasher (N)
	Wrentit (N)	Hermit Thrush (W)
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	N-Nesting	P-Possible or rare

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8 Lindo Lake Park
Description	A nice little birding spot right in the middle of Lakeside . Winter birding is more productive. An interesting pond in the northeast corner produces a good variety of birds—sometimes including Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, and Red-breasted Sapsucker. Also look for Lesser Goldfinches, Pine Siskins in some years, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, and several species of warblers in winter. Vermillion Flycatchers have been spotted around the pond several times. Spotted Sandpipers can usually be seen around the shoreline of the lake. Sora Rails (W) and Least Bitterns are present at the pond but elusive. It is sometimes a good spot for Tricolored Blackbirds. Americn White Pelicans (W, P) have been present in the winter in recent years
Directions	Take I-8 east to Highway 67. Go north on 67 and take the Riverford Road exit. After exiting, turn left on Woodside and go all the way to the end where the park will be visible. Some parking as you approach the park and other spaces around the periphery.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking. Picnic tables, restrooms, and water available.
Other Species	Great Blue Heron	Bonaparte's Gull (W P)	Double-crested Cormorant	Cassin's Kingbird
	Common Yellowthroat	Great Egret	Forster's Tern	Swallow varieties
	Marsh Wren
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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9 Point Loma
Description	While fall migration is always unpredictable, Point Loma seems to be the right place to concentrate one's efforts—especially during October. Point Loma offers fair birding in the spring. Productive areas to check are Point Loma Nazarene University campus, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery , Cabrillo National Monument and the surrounding residential areas. A variety of migrants are possibilities. Parking on the roads in the cemetery is permitted, but birding should be restricted to individual birding or groups no larger than 3-5 persons. Consideration for mourners and the nature of a cemetery environment should be paramount. The myoporum grove at Cabrillo Monument (across from the War History museum) is worth checking in the spring and fall. Park near the west end of Dupont Street for access to the college campus. Dupont is a right turn off Catalina Boulevard . There is an entry fee for the Cabrillo Monument . Check myoporum trees particularly. Monument gate opens at 9 a.m
Directions	From the end of I-8, follow the signs to Nimitz Boulevard and take the off-ramp in about one mile to Catalina Boulevard. Follow Catalina to the end (about 4 miles).
	detailed map
Hiking	Moderately strenuous hiking. Water and restrooms at Cabrillo Monument and cemetery. Windy in the afternoons.
Other Species	Chipping Sparrows (W)	Hammond's Flycatcher (M)	Warbler (F M)	Junco sp. (W)
	Other Flycatchers (M)	Blackburnian Warbler (F)	Rose-breasted Grosbeak	Gray Catbird (F V)
	Varied Thrush (F)	Wrentit	American Redstart (F)	Hermit Thrush (W)
	Accipiters
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	F-Fall	W-Winter	M-Migration	V-Vagrant

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10 Borrego Springs
Description	This is the Anza-Borrego Desert area of the county and includes a few special spots around Borrego Springs. This locale gets hot in the summer and only early morning birding is practical then. Winter birding is pleasant. Possibilities in winter are Ferruginous Hawk, Harris' Hawk, and at the Tamarisk Grove Campground, sometimes Long-eared Owls. Other regulars possible around Borrego Springs are Black-throated Sparrow, Lesser Nighthawk (both in summer), Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Scott's Oriole, Verdin, Abert's Towhee, Costa's Hummingbird, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, and Gambel's Quail. Stop in at the Anza Borrego Desert State Park Visitors Center and pick up a county checklist and a handout of places to bird in the area. In Borrego Springs, take Palm Canyon Drive (S-22) west from Christmas Circle through town. Continue a short distance past the turnoff for S-22 ( Montezuma Valley Road ) to the Visitor Center on the right.
Directions	Take Highway 78 east from Julian to Highway S-3. Turn left (north) on S-3 and go a short distance to Tamarisk Grove Campground on the right and nearby Yaqui Well. Or continue on S-3 a few miles to Borrego Springs. Or take S-2 north from I-8 (at Ocotillo) to Highway 78, turn right and proceed as above.
	detailed map
Hiking	Mildly strenuous. Bring water and expect temperatures over 100 degrees in summer. Variable weather in winter.
Other Species	Canyon Wren	Phainopepla	Mac Gillivray's Warbler (Sp)	Say's Phoebe
	Least Bell's Vireo (S)	Warblers (Sp)
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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11 Kit Carson Park
Description	This has turned out to be a particularly good birding spot in Escondido for wintering birds. Possible species one might see are Pine Siskins in some years, Cedar Waxwings (W) fairly reliably, Western Bluebird, American Goldfinch, and Lawrence's Goldfinch occasionally. There is also American Robin, American Pipit (W), Hutton's Vireo, Acorn Woodpecker, and several species of warblers. At least one or two Townsend's Warblers winter over. Often a vagrant warbler turns up. Start at El Arroyo Picnic area in the park. Birding often is good right in the main picnic area. Check out the narrow canyon (follow the trail) just to the north of the picnic area. There is a pond just south of the picnic area and another pond at the extreme south end of the park. Ring-necked Ducks, Common Moorhens and possibly Canvasback are usually present.
Directions	Take I-15 north just past Lake Hodges to the Via Rancho Parkway exit. Turn right on Via Rancho Parkway and continue as it becomes Bear Valley Parkway. Go past the North County Fair shopping center and continue to the second entrance of Kit Carson Park on the left (a stop light and fire station is on the left as you make the turn). Turn left and proceed a short distance and turn right at the end of the drive. Proceed a short distance again to El Arroyo Picnic area on the left.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking. Restrooms, water, and picnic tables.
Other Species	Downey Woodpecker	American Goldfinch	Lesser Goldfinch	Nuttall's Woodpecker
	Barn Owl (in boxes)	Pacific-slope Flycatcher (W) (Sp)	Ring-necked Duck	Other warblers (W P)
	Belted Kingfisher	Ruddy Duck
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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12 Tijuana River Estuarine Reserve
Description	A high tide should bring out Clapper Rails here, right along side the street along with a possible American Bittern (W). Later in the same morning or afternoon, a lower tide should encourage shorebird activity. Royal Terns in winter and Snowy Plovers and Little Blue Herons at any time are possibilities. Elegant Terns and Least Terns are present in the summer. An occasional Tricolored Heron turns up here in the winter. Visit the Nature Center directly across the marsh at the north edge for other information on local birdlife.
Directions	Go south on I-5 to the Coronado Avenue exit in Imperial Beach. Go west on Coronado Avenue, which becomes Imperial Beach Boulevard, all the way to Seacoast Drive (the last major street before the ocean). Turns left (south) and proceed all the way to the parking spaces on the east (left) side of the street at the end. To visit the Nature Center turn left at 3rd Avenue from Imperial Beach Boulevard.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking. Water and restrooms at the Nature Center only.
Other Species	Clapper Rail	Little Blue Heron	Great Egret	Snowy Egret
	Sora Rail (W)	Least Tern (S)	Snowy Plover	Royal Tern (W)
	Elegant Tern (S)	Gull sp.	Long-billed Curlew (W)	Dowitchers (W)
	Western Sanpiper (W)	Sanderlings (W P)	Red Knot (W)	Dunlin (W)
	American Pipit (W)	Northern Harrier	Loons offshore (W)	Pelagic sp. offshore
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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13 Sweetwater River
Description	A great riparian area complemented by open fields and chaparral. This is part of a National Wildlife Refuge. Least Bell 's Vireos, Bullock's Orioles and Rough-winged and Tree Swallows arrive here late March but all summer residents will be here by mid-May. There are many year-round residents. This is one of the best areas in the county to find Blue Grosbeaks and Yellow-breasted Chats (S). Least Bell 's Vireos (S) nest here as do a few Pacific-slope Flycatchers (S). Other possibilities are Lazuli Buntings (S), Canyon Wrens, Black-chinned Sparrows (S), Cliff Swallows (S), California Gnatcatchers and Rufous-crownned Sparrows.
Directions	Take Freeway 94 east to Jamacha Junction (the third traffic light after the end of the freeway). Turn right and go east on Highway 94 ( Campo Road ) toward Jamul—about 0.4 miles to a well-marked Singer Lane on the right just before the old steel bridge. Drive in on Singer Lane , turn left and park near the bridge. Bird on both sides from the bridge. Watch for the trail between large rocks on the right past bridgeand follow it to the open fields to left of the riparian area. The trail goes all the way to Sweetwater reservoir (about four miles.
	detailed map
Hiking	Minimal hiking required to the best birding areas, but strenuous to reach the reservoir. No water or restrooms but many restaurants nearby.
Other Species	American Goldfinch	Hutton's Vireo	Yellow Warbler (S)	Lesser Goldfinch
	Black-headed Grosbeak (S)	Rock Wren	No. Rough-winged Swallow	Tree Swallow (S)
	.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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14 Guajome Regional Park
Description	This is a sprawling county park of over 500 acres in Oceanside with a 25-acre lake and adjacent marshland and some interesting trails. The trail along the marsh and through a wooded area alone a stream is rewarding. An American Redstart, a Black-throated Green Warbler, and several other vagrants have overwintered here. Cassin's Kingbirds often are here in winter as well as goldfinches, sapsuckers and a variety of ducks.
Directions	Take I-5 north from San Diego about 40 miles to Highway 76 in Oceanside. Go east on Highway 76 about 7 miles to Guajome Lakes Road. Turn right (south) and go a short distance straight ahead and enter the park. There is also a parking area on the west side of the park off North Santa Fe Road . The park normally opens at 9 a.m. on Saturday. There is a day-use fee.
	detailed map
Hiking	Moderately strenuous. Restrooms, picnic tables and drinking water.
Other Species	White-tailed Kite	Redhead (W)	American Goldfinch	Red-br. Sapsucker
	Marsh Wren	Least Bell's Vireo (S)	Yellow Warbler	Audubon's Warbler (W)
	Hutton's Vireo	Common Yellowthroat	Black-crowned Night Heron	Lesser Goldfinch
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	V-Vagrant

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15 Blue Sky Preserve
Description	The Pacific-slope Flycatcher probably breeds here. Western Kingbirds and Yellow Warblers are here in summer. Year-round residents that might be present are the Hutton's Vireo, Cassin's Kingbird, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Spotted Towhee.
Directions	Take I-15 north to Rancho Bernardo and exit at Rancho Bernardo Road. Go east (right) about four miles. The road name changes to Espola Road after the Pomerado Road intersection. The road eventually curves to the right (south). At the end of the curve look for a large Blue Sky Reserve sign and parking area on the left.
	detailed map
Hiking	Considerable level hiking but moderately strenuous hiking possible. Portable restooms along the hiking road. Restrooms and water available at the adjacent hike-in picnic area.
Other Species	California Towhee	Yellow-rumped Warbler (W)	Ruby-crnd Kinglet (W)	Orange-crowned Warbler
	Black-headed Grosbeak (S)	Bullock's Oriole (S)	House Wren (S)	Bewick's Wren
	Red-tailed Hawk	Calif. Gnatcatcher (P)
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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16 Noble Canyon
Description	This is an interesting and pleasant spot near Pine Valley that can be productive if the creek is low and one can ford the streamed to access the more extensive and varied areas beyond. Pine Creek Road at this time can be driven all the way through the wilderness and the road comes out at Sunrise Highway near the Pioneer Mail Picnic area. A four-wheel drive for this venture is preferable. Spring migration in late April and May is most rewarding. There is limited parking at the Noble Canyon trailhead. Gray Vireos are a possibility about one mile along the Noble Canyon Trail. Noble Creek also flows into the canyon and empties into Pine Creek. Possible species include Lawrence 's Goldfinch, Phainopepla, Lazuli Bunting, Black-chinned Sparrow, Black-headed Grosbeak and several migrating Flycatcher species. Mountain Quail are often heard but infrequently seen.
Directions	Take I-8 east and exit at Pine Valley . Go north under the freeway to Old Highway 80. Turn left and go just over one mile, cross the concrete bridge, and make a sharp right turn at the end of the bridge onto Pine Creek Road. Proceed about 1.4 miles and watch for the gravel parking area next to the road on the right and the sign “Noble Canyon Trailhead.”
	detailed map
Hiking	Moderately strenuous hiking possible. Moderate except for hot summers. No water or restrooms.
Other Species	Ash-throated Flycatcher(S)	Western Wood Pewee(S)	Lesser Goldfinch	Purple Finch (P)
	Steller's Jay	Scrub Jay	White-breasted Nuthatch (P)
	.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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17 Palomar Mountain State Park
Description	This is a pleasant change from other nearby mountain area and features huge cedars and pines. A productive spot 0.6 miles down East Grade Road from the top intersection may be good for Rufous and Allen's Hummingbirds if red penstemon is blooming in July. Possible species are Hairy Woodpecker, Western Tanager (summer), Brown Creeper, Red-breasted Sapsucker and Purple Martin (summer). Rare lemon lilies in one meadow and tiger lilies along Doane Creek can be found. The best spot for birding is Doane Creek Trail within Palomar Mountain State Park and accessible from the end of the Doane Pond parking area. Spotted Owls are present in the park . Purple Martins have been found in an open meadow near lower Doane Creek; generally a few are always somewhere on the mountain in the summer.
Directions	Take I-15 north to Highway 76 or take S-6 ( Valley Center Road ) through Escondido and north to Highway 76. Turn right (east) and go about 5.6 miles from Valley Center Road or about 20.6 miles from I-15. Watch for Palomar Mountain State Park sign and turn left. Proceed up the mountain to S-7 at the top. Turn left and then another immediate left at the corner store. Go three miles to the park entrance (grab a map) and then 1.5 miles to Doane Pond. There is a day-use fee. The Palomar Observatory outside the park may be visited.
	detailed map
Hiking	Moderately strenuous. Hot in summer, cold in winter. Restrooms, some picnic tables, and water available.
Other Species	West. Wood Pewee (S)	Pacific-slope Flycatcher (S)	Lawrence's Goldfinch (P)	Red-breasted Nuthatch (P)
	Violet-green Swallow (S)	Ash-throated Flycatcher (S)	Black-headed Grosbeak (S)	Band-tailed Pigeon
	Purple Finch	Dark-eyed Junco	White-breasted Nuthatch	Mountain Chicadee
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	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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18 Agua Dulce Creek
Description	If red penstemon and Indian paintbrush are blooming in July, Rufous and Allen’s Hummingbirds can be found in the meadow near the Group Camp, on Kitchen reek Road, and generally throughout the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. A hike through the meadow at Agua Dulce Group Camp and an easy walk along Agua Dulce Creek may produce Western Bluebirds, Olive-sided Flycatchers, Hairy Woodpeckers, Lawrence’s Goldfinches, Purple Finches, Mountain Quail, Band-tailed Pigeons, Cassin’s Vireos, Brown Creepers, and Western Tanagers.
Directions	Take I-8 east past Pine Valley. Look for signs on I-8 east indicating Sunrise Highway Exit and Laguna Mountain Recreation Area (about 48 miles from Mission Valley). Go north on Sunrise Highway (S-1) about 10 miles to Morris Ranch Road. Turn right, and explore the larger meadow ahead and forest for a variety of mountain birds. Solitary Vireos have been in the forest to the left of the road just past the fenced area. Be aware of ground-nesting birds in the grassy areas in spring. Go back to Sunrise Highway and straight across to Wooded Hill Road. Proceed a short distance to the end of the road and turn right to the Agua Dulce Group Camp parking area. Hike the trail downhill to the Group Camp and meadow. Look for a trail across the meadow on the left side—cross the stream and follow the trail downstream and continue on the dirt road downstream. Check the trees along the road for a possible Spotted Owl roosting. Good maps of the Recreation Area are available in the Laguna Village Visitor Center.
	detailed map
Hiking	Moderate hiking. Restrooms and water are available at the Agua Dulce parking area. A Forest Service Adventure Pass is required.
Other Species	Mountain Chicadee	Lazuli Bunting (S)	Red-breasted Nuthatch (U)	Dusky Flycatcher (S R)
	Spotted Owl (U)	Purple Finch	Violet-green Swallow (S)	Western Screech Owl
	Saw-whet Owl (W)	Western Wood Pewee (S)	Cooper's Hawk	White-breasted Nuthatch
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	S-Summer	W-Winter	R-Rare	U-Uncommon

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19 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Description	SPECIAL NOTE: Cuyamaca was almost completely destroyed by a devastating forest fire in October, 2003. Most of the pine trees were destroyed. The park will eventually recover, but the same vegetation in many cases will not be evident. Nevertheless, plan to visit the park in the future. It should still be productive. An area with good potential for mountain species. Possibilities are Purple Martins, White-headed Woodpeckers, Green-tailed Towhees, Western Tanagers, Fox Sparrows, Brown Creepers, Dusky and Olive-sided Flycatchers, Pygmy and Red-breasted Nuthatches, and Cassin's Vireo. Acorn Woodpeckers are particularly abundant and Lazuli Buntings are possible in meadows. A somewhat strenuous hike to Lookout Peak may yield Green-tailed Towhees, Dusky and Olive-sided Flycatchers, and Purple Martins. The easier Azalea Spring Trail provides good birding. Take note of the memorial bench in memory of Audubon birder Iris Kenna at the intersection of the California Riding and Hiking Trail and Lookout Peak Trail (This bench was destroyed in the aforementioned fire. Possibly another replacement bench may someday take its place).
Directions	Take I-8 east to the Highway 79 exit. Go north on Highway 79 about 11.5 miles to the entrance on the left. Park at the day-use parking area just inside the entrance to Paso Picacho Campground.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy to moderate hiking. Restrooms, picnic tables and water at the campground. Bird checklists available at the entrance station where there is a day-use parking fee.
Other Species	Bullock's Oriole	Band-tailed Pigeon	Wild Turkey	White-throated Swift (P)
	White-headed Woodpecker	Violet-green Swallow (S)	Purple Martin (S P)	Mountain Chickadee
	Olive-sided Flycatcher (S P)	Black-headed Grosbeak (S)	Western Bluebird (P)	Western Wood Pewee (S)
	Spotted Owl (A)(Rare)	Black-chinned Sparrow (S P)	Lawrence's Goldfinch	Western Wood Pewee (S)
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	A-At Azalea Trail	P-At the Peak

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20 Kitchen Creek
Description	The elusive Gray Vireo should be a target bird here—one of the most dependable locales in the county to find it in spring and summer. Other possibilities are Lazuli Bunting, Black-chinned Sparrow, Lawrence’s Goldfinch, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Hutton’s Vireo, Phainopepla and Black-headed Grosbeak. Summer is the most rewarding. Go about 5.4 miles north from I-8 on Kitchen Creek Road to where the crushed rock road surfacing begins. Check chaparral hillsides for vireos—listen for the Cassin’s Vireo-like song.
Directions	Take I-8 east just past the Buckman Springs exit (about 50 miles from San Diego). Turn left and proceed to the target location just past Cibbet’s Flat Campground. Note the large sign that reads Pavement Ends 400 Feet. Park in the large gravel area on the left or large dirt area on the right under a tree canopy just where the narrower rough pavement begins. Look for a rough dirt road to the left that becomes the trail to Kitchen Creek.
	detailed map
Hiking	Moderately strenuous. Expect hot weather in summer. Bring water. No facilities.
Other Species	Western Wood Pewee (S)	Black-headed Grosbeak (S)	Oak Titmouse	White-breasted Nuthatch
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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21 South Bay
Description	Weather permitting this is a good spot to see a variety of mainly waterfowl that winter in the South Bay. Birding is best in winter. This is part of a new National Wildlife Refuge. Possibilities are Red-breasted Merganser, Brant Goose, Surf Scoter, Little-blue Heron, Common Goldeneye and several species of loons. Occasionally a Long-tailed Duck (Oldsquaw) is discovered.
Directions	Take I-5 south to the Palm Avenue exit in Imperial Beach. Go west to Delaware and turn right (north). Go several blocks and turn right over to 8th Street. Proceed left (north) on 8th Street to Boulevard Avenue. Parking is available on side streets and on Delaware. Check the general area toward and into the Bay and hike to the left along the jogging/bike path.
	detailed map
Hiking	Considerable moderate hiking possible. Be prepared for variable weather in winter. No facilities.
Other Species	Black Skimmer	Redhead (W)	Lesser Scaup (W)	Greater Scaup (W P)
	Osprey	Long-billed Curlew (W)	Marbled Godwit (W)	Western Sandpiper (W)
	Least Sandpiper (W)	Semipalmated Plover (W)	Many other shore birds
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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22 Lake Murray
Description	A surprisingly good variety of birds is possible here. Fairly consistently, dependable species are Osprey, California Gnatcatcher, Tricolored Blackbird, California Thrasher, Green Heron, and, in summer Bullock’s Oriole and Western Kingbird.
Directions	Take I-8 to the Lake Murray Boulevard exit and proceed a short distance to the Kiowa entrance to parking on the left. Alternatively, go one mile to Baltimore. Turn left, go about one mile and make another left on Jackson Drive. Proceed one quarter mile and then left onto Golfcrest and then about one mile to Mission Trails Park on the left.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking. Explore the trails. Restrooms, picnic tables, and water.
Other Species	Tricolored Blackbird	California Thrasher	Yellow Warbler (S)	Cliff Swallow (S)
	Sora Rail (W P)	Mute Swan (P)	Wrentit	Grebes (W)
	Duck varieties (W)	Blue Grosbeak (S)	Costa's Hummingbird	Cassin's Kingbird
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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23 Lake Hodges
Description	A fine birding spot at an easily accessible scenic reservoir. Species one might observe are Western and Clark’s Grebes, California and Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, the coastal race of Cactus Wren, White-tailed Kite, Osprey, Golden Eagle, Sage Sparrow, and Spotted Sandpiper.
Directions	From the I-15 headed north, exit at West Bernardo Drive/Pomerado Road at Lake Hodges. Turn left and go over the freeway. The road is then West Bernardo Drive. Continue up the hill about one-half mile and turn right at the entrance to the Joslyn Senior Center (part of a large recreation area). Park in the Center and hike from there on the trails to the lake.
	detailed map
Hiking	Considerable moderate hiking possible. Variable weather in winter, hot in summer. Restrooms, water, and picnic tables available at the Senior Center.
Other Species	Loggerhead Shrike	American Kestrel	Cooper's Hawk	Eared Grebe (W)
	American White Pelican	Canada Goose (W)	Couble-crested Cormorant	Egrets/Herons
	Turkey Vulture	Forster's Tern	Bonaparte's Gull (W)	Greater Roadrunner
	White-throated Swift	Lesser Goldfinch	Belted Kingfisher	Swallows (various)
	Cassin's Kingbird	Bewick's Wren	Wrentit	Hummingbirds
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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24 Lake Henshaw/Mesa Grande Road
Description	A special region in the back country that always has a surprise or two in the late fall and winter; it never fails to produce a few sapsuckers and raptors. Possibilities in fall and winter are Mountain Bluebird (open fields on Mesa Grande Road sometimes), Red-naped and Red-breasted Sapsuckers (at Santa Ysabel Mission), Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles (mainly Lake Henshaw), Ferruginous Hawks (often on power poles) and, unpredictably, Lewis’ Woodpeckers. Dudley’s Bakery (opens at 8 a.m.) in Santa Ysabel is good starting point as is the Santa Ysabel Mission. Some time should be spent at the Mission for sapsuckers in fall, and down the road and left off Highway 79 on Mesa Grande Road in late fall and winter. Mesa Grande Road terminates at Lake Henshaw (11.5 miles). Check out the first mile of Black Canyon Road (about half the way along Mesa Grande) for Golden Eagles. The first mile of Mesa Grande Road may yield a Ferruginous Hawk and Lewis’ Woodpeckers in winter.
Directions	Take Highway 78 east through Ramona to Santa Ysabel.
	detailed map
Hiking	Minimal hiking—most viewing is along the drive. Variable weather with wind often in winter. Restrooms and water at Dudley’s and Santa Ysabel Mission.
Other Species	Red-naped Sapsucker (F M)	Red-brst'd Sapsucker (F M)	Prairie Falcon (W P)	Lawrence's Goldfinch (P)
	Junco var. (W M)	Lark Sparrow (M)	Mountain Bluebird (W P)
	.
	F-Fall	W-Winter	M-Mission	P-Possible or rare

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25 Lake Morena
Description	Park at the parking area near the ranger station within Lake Morena County Park. This locale has good potential especially in early fall and late spring migration before it gets hot. Possible birds are Golden Eagle, Phainopepla, Lawrence’s Goldfinch, Yellow Warbler, Black-headed Grosbeak, and Bullock’s Oriole in summer. Fall migrants include warblers, Fox Sparrows, and Hermit Thrushes. Start at the picnic area near the ranger station and check the shoreline of the lake and nearby camping area. Follow the road along the lake and ascent to Ward’s Flats meadow area. Concentrate on a cove as you follow the lakeshore. Map available at the ranger station.
Directions	Going east on I-8, exit on Buckman Springs Road (about 47 miles). Go south five miles to Oak Drive. Turn right (west) and go about two miles to Lake Morena Drive. Turn right and continue thorough the village to the park
	detailed map
Hiking	Considerable hiking (strenuous in hot weather) is possible. Mild in winter. Bring water for the trail. Restrooms, water, and picnic tables at the park.
Other Species	Ash-throated Flycatcher (S)	Rock Wren	Lazuli Bunting (S)	Great-tailed Grackle
	Costa's Hummingbird	Turkey Vulture	Cooper's Hawk (P)	Yellow-rumped Warbler (W)
	White-throated Swift	California Quail	Wrentit
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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26 Agua Caliente County Park
Description	A great birding location in the Anza-Borrego Desert especially during spring migration. Pleasant weather allows rewarding birding in April and May. Natural springs seeping through the campground attract many species. A good spot to locate Least Bell’s Vireos (nesting) and MacGillivray’s Warbler as it migrates through. Other possibilities are Scott’s Oriole, Black-throated Sparrow, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Verdin, Phainopepla, Western Tanager, Cactus Wren, and other migrating warblers.
Directions	Going east on I-8 to Ocotillo (about 86 miles from San Diego) turn north on S-2 for 25 miles. Turn left to the park.
	detailed map
Hiking	Good birding in the campground area. Check Squaw Pond a short distance away. Carry water if you leave the campground. Portable restrooms and water are available. There is a day-use fee.
Other Species	Costa's Hummingbird	Black-chinned Hummingbird	Various warblers (M)	Least Bell's Vireo (S)
	Yellow Warbler (M)	Say's Phoebe	Yellow-breasted Chat (S)	Hooded Oriole (S)
	Western migrants
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	M-Migration	P-Possible or rare

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27 La Jolla
Description	The Ellen Browning Scripps Park in La Jolla features rocky shoreline birding. Winter, when numerous shorebirds are present, is best. Some interesting pelagic birds come close to the shore in stormy weather. Winter birds include Surfbirds, Brandt’s Cormorant, Wandering Tattlers, Black and Ruddy Turnstones and Whimbrels. A good starting point is just past the Children’s Pool near 303 Coast Boulevard.
Directions	From I-5 go north or Highway 52 from the east take the La Jolla Parkway exit. La Jolla Parkway cannot be accessed from the north on I-5. Go west on the Parkway which becomes Torrey Pines Road. Continue to Prospect Street and turn right. Continue a short distance and turn right on Coast Boulevard and continue past Children’s Pool and the lifeguard station.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking. Area is often overcast. Restrooms and water available.
Other Species	Western Gull	Heerman's Gull	California Gull	Other gull sp.
	Brown pelican	Double-crested Cormorant	Spotted Sandpiper	Least Sandpiper (W)
	Black-bellied Plover (W)	Semi-palmated Plover (W)	Royal Tern (W)
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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28 Penasquitos Canyon
Description	This is a pleasant canyon in a quiet preserve accessible from either end of the six-mile canyon. Possible species are Acorn Woodpecker, White-tailed Kite (nesting), Golden-crowned and White-crowned Sparrows (winter), Blue Grosbeak, (summer), Nuttall’s Woodpecker, and Western Bluebird. Grasshopper Sparrows are possible on the grassy hillside to the left coming from the east and in the grassy areas at the west end of the canyon.
Directions	Take I-15 north just past Mira Mesa and exit on Mercy Road. Go under the freeway (west) and continue about one mile on Mercy to Black Mountain Road. The entrance to the preserve is straight ahead directly across the road. Enter the preserve and park in the upper parking area—there is a use fee for which you need change.
	detailed map
Hiking	Considerable moderate hiking possible. A drinking fountain and portable restrooms are available.
Other Species	Great-horned Owl (N)	Red-tailed Hawk (N)	Lazuli Bunting (S M)	Bullock's Oriole (S)
	Black-headed Grosbeak (S)	Common Snipe (W)	Western migrants (Sp)
	.
	S-Summer	W-Winter	N-Nesting	M-Migration

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29 Buena Vista Lagoon
Description	The Buena Vista Lagoon is half in Oceanside, half in Carlsbad. There are dozens of resident species and dozen’s more migrants and over-wintering birds. At the Nature Center you can get directions to the several other lagoons just south of Buena Vista or you can drive down South Coast Highway and stop at the numerous beaches and lagoons along the San Diego County coast.
Directions	From I-5, exit at Vista Way and go west toward the ocean a few blocks to South Coast Highway (the first signal past I-5). Turn left (south) and go part of one very long block to the Buena Vista Audubon Nature Center on your left (2202 South Coast Highway, Oceanside).
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking.
Other Species	American White Pelican (P)	Brown Pelican	Eared Grebe (W)	Clark's Grebe (W)
	Green Heron	Wintering ducks	Surf Scoter (W)	Black-bellied Plover (W)
	Virginia Rail	Common Moorhen	American Avocet	California Quail
	Bonaparte's Gull (W)	Heerman's Gull (W)	California Gull
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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30 Crown Point
Description	During very high tides in winter, this is an excellent spot to find shorebirds, waterfowl, skimmers, terns, gulls, and rails. The best and most accessible area overlooks the Kendall-Frost Preserve from the northerly end of Crown Point Shores Park. There is an observation platform. One can expect Brant Geese (in fall), Black Skimmers, Clapper and Sora Rails with the possibility of Virginia Rails. Skimmers and other shorebirds can be seen along the shoreline across the fence by the large open dirt area.
Directions	Take I-8 west to the exit for Mission Bay Drive/Sports Arena Boulevard. Go north (right) on Ingraham, cross the last bridge and turn right onto Crown Point Drive. Park at the north end of the park are to your right.
	detailed map
Hiking	Easy hiking. Picnic tables, restrooms and water are available in the park.
Other Species	Black Skimmer	Dunlin (W)	Red Knot (W)	Horned Grebe (W)
	Eared Grebe (W)	Common Loon (W)	Gull sp.	Tern sp>
	Sora Rail (W)	Clapper Rail	Marbled Godwit (W)	Virginia Rail (P)
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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31 Salton Sea
Description	While it’s in Imperial rather than San Diego County, this is a great place to find special birds in summer and winter. Summer visitors include Wood Storks, Black Terns, Yellow-footed Gulls, Laughing Gulls, Lesser Nighthawks, Burrowing Owls and migrant Wilson’s and red-neck Phalaropes. Birds expected in winter are thousands of Snow and Ross’ Geese, Canada Geese, and a few White-fronted Geese, Sandhill Cranes, thousands of Eared Grebes, Common Goldeneyes, a variety of ducks and other waterfowl. Ever present is the Burrowing Owl. Mountain Bluebirds and Mountain Plovers are possible in winter. Use the Salton Sea National Wildlife Headquarters as your initial destination. Maps, information, and checklists are available. Refer to the ABA Guide “Birders’ Guide to Southern California” for additional help. Along the way to Salton Sea, check for Burrowing Owls along ditches, White-faced Ibises, Black Terns and Laughing Gulls in wet fields in summer.
Directions	Take I-8 east to Imperial Valley. Just past the Sunbeam Rest Stop, turn left (north) on Forrester Road. Go north through Westmorland (Forrester becomes Gentry Road). Continue on Gentry to the Refuge Headquarters to the left on the intersection of Gentry and Sinclair.
	detailed map
Hiking	Strenuous in summer. Be prepared for very hot summer weather—over 100 degrees. Bring plenty of water, hat, and sunscreen. Winter is usually pleasant. There are restrooms, water, and a few picnic tables at the Refuge headquarters.
Other Species	Yellow-footed Gull (S)	Wood Stork (S)	Sandhill Crane (W)	Ross' Goose (W)
	Snow Goose (W)	Phalaropes (S)	Mountain Plover (W)	Verdin
	Black-tailed Gnatcatcher	Abert's Towhee	Lesser Nighthawk (S)	Black Tern (S)
.
	S-Summer	Sp-Spring	W-Winter	P-Possible or rare

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Text and map extracted from SDAS Birding San Diego County by Bill McCausland
To purchase a copy click here

From Birding Sites in San Diego County; Bill McCausland and SDAS

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