Mammoth Lakes, California is home to a wide variety of birds. With its vast mountain ranges, forests, and wetlands, the area provides an ideal habitat for many species of birds. The region is known for its diversity in both migratory and resident birds.
During the summer months, many migratory birds can be seen passing through the area, while during the winter, the area is alive with resident species. From small to large birds, Mammoth Lakes offers something for everyone and is a great place for bird watching.
1. Osprey
The osprey is a large bird of prey that is found all over the world. It is sometimes called a sea hawk, river hawk, or fish hawk because of its diet which consists primarily of fish.
It is easily recognizable by its size, with a length of over 60 cm and a wingspan of up to 180 cm. It has a brown coloration on its upperparts and a greyish coloration on its head and underparts. The Osprey is a diurnal bird, which means it is active during the day.
It hunts for fish by diving into the water and catching them with its talons. It is most often found near bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans, where it can find an abundance of its preferred food.
Ospreys have adapted to a wide variety of habitats, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. They are also able to live in cities, nesting on tall buildings and bridges. This ability to adapt has allowed them to thrive in many parts of the world.
The osprey is an important species in the ecosystem, as it helps to keep fish populations in balance. It is also a symbol of power and grace and is admired by many people for its beauty and strength.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Pandionidae |
| Genus | Pandion |
| Species | P. haliaetus |
2. Ring-Necked Duck
The ring-necked duck is a diving duck that is native to North America and can typically be found in freshwater ponds and lakes.
Its scientific name, Aythya collaris, is derived from the Greek term “aithuia”, which was used to refer to an unidentified seabird by ancient authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle, and the Latin term “collaris”, which translates to “of the neck” from the Latin word “collum”, meaning “neck”.
This species of duck is characterized by its distinctive ring of white feathers around its neck, hence the name ring-necked duck. The neck ring is typically larger and more distinct in males than females.
As a diving duck, the ring-necked duck feeds by diving underwater and can stay submerged for up to 30 seconds in search of food. It typically feeds on aquatic invertebrates, including molluscs, crustaceans, aquatic insects, and small fish.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. collaris |
3. Bald Eagle
The bald eagle is a majestic bird of prey found in North America and is known as the national bird of the United States. It is a sea eagle, meaning it is adapted to live and hunt near water.
There are two known subspecies of the bald eagle, the Northern bald eagle, and the Florida bald eagle. The Northern bald eagle is found in most of North America and the Florida bald eagle is found mainly in the Florida panhandle and the Caribbean islands.
The bald eagle shares its niche with another species of eagle, the white-tailed eagle, which is found in the Palearctic, which is a region of the Northern Hemisphere including Europe, North Africa, and Asia.
The two species together form a species pair, meaning that they occupy the same ecological niche and compete for the same food resources.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Haliaeetus |
| Species | H. leucocephalus |
4. American Wigeon
The American wigeon, also known as the baldpate, is a species of dabbling duck native to North America. It was previously classified as part of the Anas genus but is now part of the dabbling duck genus Mareca.
The American wigeon is the New World counterpart of the Eurasian wigeon, which is found in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The American wigeon is a medium-sized duck with a distinctive white crown and white cheek patch.
It has a reddish-brown body with a green head, yellow eyes, and a black bill. The males have a black breast and belly, while the females are brownish-gray on the breast and belly.
The American wigeon is a popular game bird and is hunted for its meat in many parts of North America. The American wigeon is found near shallow wetlands and marshes. They feed on aquatic plants, insects, and mollusks.
In winter, they migrate south to warmer climates, where they can find more food. The American wigeon is an important part of North America’s natural ecosystem. They are an important food source for many predators, and their presence keeps aquatic vegetation healthy.
They also provide recreational opportunities for bird watchers and hunters.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. americana |
5. Prairie Falcon
Source: Wikipedia
The prairie falcon is a species of bird that is native to western North America. It is a medium to large-sized falcon, measuring an average of 40 cm in length, and having a wingspan of roughly 1 meter. It has relatively lightweight for its size, with an average of 720 g.
As is the case with most other falcon species, the females of this species are larger than the males. The prairie falcon has many features that are characteristic of falcons in general.
It has a long, pointed beak, and its wings are designed for high-speed flight, allowing it to rapidly swoop down on its prey. Its feathers are a mottled brown and cream color, providing it with camouflage while hunting.
It also has excellent eyesight, which helps it to spot prey from great distances. The prairie falcon is an apex predator in its environment. It mostly feeds on small mammals and birds, though it will also occasionally take carrion.
It is highly territorial, and will aggressively defend its territory from other predators. It usually nests in cliffs or on ledges, and will often make use of old nests from birds of prey such as hawks or eagles.
The prairie falcon is a fascinating species of bird, and it has an important role in its natural environment. It is an important part of the food chain, and its presence helps to keep the populations of its prey species in balance.
It is also an important indicator species, since its health and numbers can provide information about the health of its environment as a whole.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Falco |
| Species | F. mexicanus |
6. Wilson’s Phalarope
Wilson’s phalarope is an impressive wader species found in North America. It is the largest species of phalarope and breeds in the prairies of western Canada and the United States.
This species is migratory and spends its winters in the Andes near inland salt lakes in Argentina. The Wilson’s phalarope is a small wader, reaching lengths of between 25 and 31 centimeters, and is easily identified by its distinctive black and white plumage.
Its wings are long and pointed, and its bill is long and thin. It feeds by wading in shallow water, picking up small insects, fish, and crustaceans. During the breeding season, Wilson’s phalarope forms large colonies and builds nests on the ground.
The female is the primary caretaker of the eggs and chicks, while the male leaves after mating. The Wilson’s phalarope is an important species for conservation, as its populations have been declining due to habitat loss and degradation.
It is also vulnerable to predators and is hunted by birds of prey and other animals. Despite these threats, the Wilson’s phalarope remains a beautiful species that brings color and life to its environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Phalaropus |
| Species | P. tricolor |
7. Double-Crested Cormorant
The double-crested cormorant is a bird species that belongs to the cormorant family of water birds. It is found in many different habitats, including rivers, lakes, and coastal areas.
The double-crested cormorant has a large range and is widely distributed across North America, from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska to Florida and Mexico. This species is one of the most common cormorants in North America.
It can be seen flying in flocks, often near water bodies or along coastlines, and prefers to nest in colonies. The double-crested cormorant’s diet consists mostly of fish, but they will occasionally consume amphibians and crustaceans.
They are agile swimmers and can dive up to depths of 30 metres to catch their food. The double-crested cormorant is a protected species and is considered a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Nannopterum |
| Species | N. auritum |
8. Eared Grebe
The black-necked grebe, also known as the eared grebe, is a species of water bird from the grebe family. It was first documented in 1831 by the German zoologist Christian Ludwig Brehm.
Currently, there are three accepted subspecies of the black-necked grebe, with the nominate subspecies being the most widely recognized. The black-necked grebe is a relatively small bird, typically measuring between 26 and 30 cm in length and weighing between 200 and 300 grams.
Its upperparts are mostly dark, while its underparts are largely white. Its head is black, with a white stripe that extends from its bill to the back of its neck, giving it its name.
The sexes are similar in appearance, but the male may be slightly larger and more brightly colored than the female. The black-necked grebe is found in Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America.
It prefers freshwater or brackish habitats, such as lakes, marshes, and slow-moving rivers. It is an excellent swimmer and diver and can stay underwater for up to a minute. Its diet consists mostly of small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans.
The black-necked grebe is a monogamous species, and pairs typically form during the breeding season. The male builds a floating nest in shallow water, and the female lays up to six eggs, which hatch after around three weeks.
The chicks are precocial, meaning they can feed themselves shortly after hatching. The parents care for the chicks for a few weeks before they become independent.
The black-necked grebe is listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, as its population is thought to be relatively stable.
However, its habitat is still threatened by pollution and human activities, so it is important to protect its wetland habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. nigricollis |
9. American Dipper
The American dipper, also known as the water ouzel, is a medium-sized bird species native to the western parts of North America. The bird is primarily found in the mountainous regions of the United States and Canada, making it home near fast-moving streams and rivers.
The American dipper is a type of water bird, which means it has adapted to spending part of its time both in and out of the water. The American dipper is easily identified by its stocky body and distinct markings. The bird is mostly gray in color with a white chest and belly.
It also has a dark line passing from the eyes to the base of its bill, along with a white eye-ring.
The wings are short and rounded, and the legs are strong and powerful. The American dipper is an excellent swimmer and can be seen bobbing in and out of the water, using its wings to propel itself.
It is also an adept climber and can be seen clinging to rocks and tree trunks along the banks of rivers and streams. The American dipper feeds on aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans.
It also eats some vegetation, such as waterweed and moss. The American dipper is an important part of the North American ecosystem, as it helps keep the riverbeds clean of debris and excess nutrient levels.
The species is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cinclidae |
| Genus | Cinclus |
| Species | C. mexicanus |
10. Western Tanager
The western tanager is a medium-sized American songbird. It was formerly placed in the Tanager family but has since been reclassified into the cardinal family.
This change of classification is due to similarities in its plumage and vocalizations to other members of the cardinal family. The plumage of the western tanager is typically bright yellow on its head, back, and wings, with a black mask-like face and a reddish-orange underside.
Its vocalizations are also similar to other cardinals and include a wide variety of chirps, whistles, and trills.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Piranga |
| Species | P. ludoviciana |
11. Ruddy Duck
The Ruddy Duck is a species of duck native to North America. It belongs to the family of stiff-tailed ducks, which are characterized by their short, stiff tails.
Its scientific name, Oxyura jamaicensis, is derived from Ancient Greek, with ‘oxus’ meaning ‘sharp’ and ‘oura’ meaning ‘tail’, referring to the short, sharp tail of the Ruddy Duck. ‘Jamaicensis’ is a reference to the species’ origin, as it is found in Jamaica.
The Ruddy Duck has a distinctive rusty red-brown body and white cheeks, with a blue bill and black cap. It is a small duck, measuring up to 30 cm in length, and typically inhabits wetlands, ponds, and lakes.
They tend to form large flocks and can be seen bobbing their heads in the water. They have a unique courtship display, where males will raise their tail and wings, and swim in circles around the female.
Overall, the Ruddy Duck is an interesting species of duck native to North America and characterized by its short, stiff tail and rusty red-brown body. Its scientific name, Oxyura jamaicensis, refers to its Greek origin and its home in Jamaica.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. jamaicensis |
12. Canvasback
The canvasback is a large species of diving duck found in North America. It is the largest species of diving duck in the region and often inhabits shallow wetlands and marshes.
It is named for its distinctive, sloping head and back that is colored with a reddish-brown hue, which provides the duck with excellent camouflage when submerged in the water. The canvasback also has a long, white breast and a brown-colored bill.
It is an agile swimmer and can dive deep into the water to feed on aquatic plants, molluscs, and other invertebrates. During the spring and summer months, the canvasback will migrate to the northern regions of North America to breed.
It nests in dense marsh vegetation and lays eggs in a well-concealed nest. The canvasback is an important species for waterfowl hunters, providing a challenging hunt, and its population is closely monitored by wildlife management organizations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. valisineria |
13. Neotropic Cormorant
The Neotropic Cormorant, also known as the Olivaceous Cormorant, is a species of medium-sized bird found in tropical and subtropical areas in the Americas.
It is distributed from the Middle Rio Grande in the United States, along the Gulf of Mexico and California’s coast, to northern South America. The Neotropic Cormorant is a large, black-colored bird, with a long, slender neck and a long, hooked bill.
Its legs are short, and its feet are webbed, enabling it to swim well in water. They typically live near rivers, lakes, and wetlands. The Neotropic Cormorant has a varied diet that includes small fish, amphibians, and crustaceans.
It dives underwater to find its prey and can stay underwater for up to a minute. They are also known to feed on carrion. The Neotropic Cormorant is a colonial nester, and will often build its nests in trees or on cliffs.
The female will lay 3-4 eggs, which both parents will incubate for around 28 days.
The chicks stay with their parents for a few weeks after hatching, before leaving the nest to find food. The Neotropic Cormorant is an important species in its range and is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
However, it is threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Nannopterum |
| Species | N. brasilianum |
14. Common Gull
The Common Gull, also known as the Sea Mew, is a species of gull that is native to the Palearctic region of northern Europe. It is a medium-sized bird, typically ranging from 16-18 inches long and weighing between 8-14 ounces.
Common Gulls are closely related to the Short-billed Gull, and the two species are sometimes referred to collectively as “Mew Gulls”. Common Gulls have a wide variety of habitats, including coasts, islands, and marshes.
During the summer breeding season, they typically inhabit the northern regions of Europe, but during the winter they migrate further south to warmer climates. Common Gulls have a number of unique characteristics that set them apart from other species of gulls.
They are easily recognizable by their white head and gray wings, and they have black legs and beaks. They have a distinctive call that is often heard in the summer months, and they are also known to be quite vocal.
Common Gulls are omnivorous, and they feed on a variety of food sources such as fish, insects, small mammals, and grains. They often scavenge for food and will also feed on carrion.
Overall, Common Gulls are a successful species that is well adapted to a wide variety of habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Larus |
| Species | L. canus |
15. Red-Necked Phalarope
The red-necked phalarope is a small wading bird found in the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. It is also known as the northern phalarope and hyperborean phalarope.
The red-necked phalarope is a migratory bird, which means it spends the summer breeding in the Arctic and migrates to warmer climates in the winter. This is unusual for a wader, as many waders migrate to warmer climates for the summer and back to the Arctic for winter.
The red-necked phalarope, however, chooses to spend the winter in tropical oceans. The red-necked phalarope is an interesting bird species, as it has adapted to its environment and developed its own unique migratory pattern.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Phalaropus |
| Species | P. lobatus |
Conclusion
Mammoth Lakes is a great destination for bird watching. With a wide variety of habitats in the area, from wetlands to forests, Mammoth Lakes offers a variety of bird species to observe.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced bird watcher, Mammoth Lakes is sure to have something for everyone. So, grab your binoculars and get ready to explore the birds of Mammoth Lakes!