Welcome to Grover Beach, home to an abundance of beautiful birds! This coastal city is a popular destination for birders, as its mild climate and diverse habitats make it a perfect spot for avian life.
You can find various birds here, from the seabirds along the bluffs to the shorebirds along the beach. Whether you’re a novice or an expert birder, there is something for everyone here.
Grover Beach is a birdwatcher’s paradise, from the iconic Brown Pelicans that soar above the beach to the rare Red-throated Loon that frequents the estuaries. So come out and explore what this fantastic coastal city offers and observe the stunning birds of Grover Beach!
23 Birds to Watch in Grover Beach
If you are a bird lover, you will enjoy visiting Grover Beach, a coastal city in San Luis Obispo County, California. Grover Beach is home to a variety of birds, from shorebirds to raptors, that can be seen throughout the year.
Here are 23 birds that you should look out for when you visit Grover Beach.
1. Snowy Egret
The snowy egret is a small white heron in many parts of the world. Its scientific name, Egretta thula, was derived from two different languages. “Egretta” comes from the Provençal French word for the little egret, aigrette, a diminutive of Saigon meaning ‘heron’.
The species name, thula, is an Araucano term for the black-necked swan, which was mistakenly applied to this species by Chilean naturalist Juan Ignacio Molina in 1782. The snowy egret is a delicate white bird with a long, slender neck and long legs.
Its wingspan is typically between 24 and 30 inches, and its body length is 22 and 26 inches. It has black legs, a yellow beak, and a black stripe extending from its beak to the back of its head.
During the breeding season, its feathers are adorned with long, thin plumes, giving it a distinctive appearance. The snowy egret is an active and social bird, often seen in large flocks foraging for food in shallow wetlands.
It feeds on fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and insects, which it catches with its long beak.
It is a protected species in many countries, and its population is increasing due to conservation efforts. The snowy egret is an integral part of the ecosystem, helping to control populations of fish and other aquatic species.
Its presence in wetlands also helps maintain water quality, an essential indicator of wetland health. In addition, its beauty and grace make it a beloved bird among birdwatchers and bird lovers alike.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. thula |
2. Night Heron
The black-crowned night heron is found worldwide in Europe, Asia, and North and South America. This medium-sized bird is also known as the black-capped night heron and is often referred to as the night heron in Eurasia.
Due to its wide range, the black-crowned night heron can be found in various habitats, including wetlands, marshes, and estuaries. This heron species is a solitary hunter, preying on small fish, amphibians, and insects.
During the breeding season, it builds a large nest in trees or shrubs, usually close to water. The black-crowned night heron is easily identified by its black head, neck, white face, yellow eyes, and bill.
Its back and wings are dark brown or grey, while its underparts are white. This heron species is quite common and is not considered to be threatened.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Nycticorax |
| Species | N. nycticorax |
3. Brown Pelican
The brown pelican is a large seabird belonging to the Pelecanidae family. It is one of three pelicans found in the Americas and one of two species that dive into the water to feed.
The brown pelican is a graceful bird with a long, sharp beak and a large throat pouch. Its wingspan can measure up to seven feet, and its body is typically between 24 and 46 inches long. Its feathers are mostly brown, with a white head and neck, and its feet are webbed.
The brown pelican is an adept hunter, diving from heights up to 60 feet to feed. It plunges into the water with its wings stretched out and its head tucked in, then scoops up small fish, shrimp, and other aquatic creatures with its large throat pouch.
Once the pouch is filled with the catch, the pelican returns to the surface and drains the water from its pouch before swallowing its prey. The brown pelican is an integral part of coastal ecosystems in the Americas, helping to keep the populations of small fish in check.
It is also a favourite with birdwatchers, who enjoy watching the pelicans gracefully dive into the water. Unfortunately, the brown pelican is listed as threatened in many areas due to habitat loss and other environmental stresses.
Efforts to conserve this species are ongoing, and the brown pelican continues to be an essential part of our natural world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. occidentalis |
4. Willet
The willet is a large shorebird that belongs to the family Scolopacidae. It is a strong and sturdy sandpiper and is the biggest of the birds classified in the genus Tringa. Willets are typically found on shorelines, such as beaches, mudflats, and rocky coasts.
They have a long and pointed bill and long legs, which they use to feed on invertebrates in the sand and mud. They also feed on small fish, crustaceans, and plant material.
Willets are generally greyish-brown on the back and white on the underside, with a black stripe on the wings. Their long wingspan allows them to migrate long distances, usually from North America to South America.
During the breeding season, they can be found in large flocks, and their distinctive call can be heard from far away. Willets are a great example of the diversity of shorebirds and the importance of our shorelines.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Tringa |
| Species | T. semipalmata |
5. Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s hummingbird is a species of bird from the family Trochilidae, which includes hummingbirds. It was named after Anna Masséna, Duchess of Rivoli, and is native to the western coastal regions of North America.
In particular, Anna’s hummingbirds are most commonly found in northern Baja California and Southern California. At the beginning of the 20th century, Anna’s hummingbirds were only found breeding in these two locations.
Since then, their range has expanded a bit, and they can now be found in some other western parts of the United States.
They are medium-sized hummingbirds, with males having a length of around 3.5 inches and a wingspan of about 4.5 inches. Anna’s hummingbird is considered unique because of its iridescent feathers that change colour depending on the angle of the light.
This gives them a unique and beautiful appearance.
The species also has a unique mating behaviour, where the male will perform a remarkable courtship display to attract a female. Anna’s hummingbirds are also important pollinators, as they feed on the nectar of various flowers and help to spread their pollen.
This benefits both the bird and the flower, as the bird gets its food source, and the flower gets help in reproductive efforts. Overall, Anna’s hummingbird is a beautiful and important species of bird that has become a symbol of nature’s beauty in the western parts of North America.
They are essential pollinators, and their stunning feathers make them a joy to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Calypte |
| Species | C. anna |
6. House Finch
The house finch is a member of the Fringillidae family, commonly known as the finch family. This species is native to western North America but has been introduced to the eastern half of the continent and Hawaii.
The house finch is assigned to the genus Haemorhous, including two other American rosefinches. The house finch is a small bird with a bright red face, breast, and brown back. Its diet consists of seeds, berries, and insects.
It is a social bird, often seen in flocks, and is known for its melodious, cheerful song. The house finch is a familiar backyard bird and a popular pet.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
7. Spotted Towhee
The spotted towhee is a species of sparrow belonging to the New World group of birds. It is a large bird and has a distinctive spotted pattern on its feathers. In recent decades, there has been debate in the scientific community over the taxonomy of the towhee species.
Until 1995, the spotted towhee and the eastern towhee were considered the same species, the rufous-sided towhee. This has since changed, and the two species are now classified separately.
An old name for the spotted towhee is the Oregon towhee, although this is no longer used.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Pipilo |
| Species | P. maculatus |
8. Western Sandpiper
The Western Sandpiper is a small shorebird belonging to the genus Calidris or Scalidris, a term used by the Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle to describe certain grey-coloured birds that lived near water.
The specific name mauri is a tribute to the Italian botanist Ernesto Mauri. Western Sandpipers are migratory birds found in coastal areas, wetlands, and estuaries in both North and South America.
They feed mainly on small invertebrates, insects, crustaceans, and some seeds. During winter, they fly south to warmer climates while heading north to breed in the summer.
They are essential to us because they help to maintain the balance of ecosystems in the areas they inhabit.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Calidris |
| Species | C. mauri |
9. White-Crowned Sparrow
The white-crowned sparrow is a small bird that is native to North America. It belongs to the New World sparrow family, a group of passerines that includes other species, such as the chipping and white-throated sparrow.
This bird species is medium-sized, growing to about 16 cm in length. Its most defining feature is its grey face and black and white streaking on the upper head.
These markings on its head are thought to help it blend into its natural environment, allowing it to hide from predators. This species has a wide range of habitats, from the moist coniferous forests of the Pacific Coast to grasslands and deserts.
It is often found in open areas such as meadows, fields, and roadsides. White-crowned sparrows are known to feed on insects, seeds, and berries. They usually travel in flocks and are active during the day, providing a wonderful sight for birdwatchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Zonotrichia |
| Species | Z. leucophrys |
10. American Coot
The American coot is a species of bird native to North America and is part of the family Rallidae. It is often mistaken for a duck due to its similar size and shape, but it is unrelated to ducks.
The American coot is classified as a separate order and is commonly known as a mud hen or rouleau. The American coot is a game bird found in various habitats across the continent, including wetlands, lakes, rivers, and estuaries.
It is an excellent swimmer and prefers to feed in shallow waters, eating a range of aquatic vegetation and insects. Its plumage is usually dark grey and black, with bright red eyes. The American coot is a popular target for hunters and is hunted in many states.
It is also a famous sighting for birdwatchers and can be found in sizable numbers in some areas. The American coot is a generally peaceful bird, often found in small groups.
During breeding, the males can become quite aggressive and defend their territories fiercely. Overall, the American coot is a fascinating species frequently mistaken for ducks but is an entirely different species.
Its unique characteristics make it an exciting bird to observe and hunt.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Fulica |
| Species | F. americana |
11. Eurasian Whimbrel
The Eurasian or common whimbrel is a species of wader that belongs to the Scolopacidae family. This species is one of the most widely distributed curlews and can be found breeding in subarctic regions of Europe and Asia, stretching from Scotland to Siberia.
It is also known as the white-rumped whimbrel in North America. The Eurasian or common whimbrel is a large bird, measuring up to about 50 cm in length, with a wingspan of up to a meter. It has a mottled brown plumage with white patches on the wings and tail.
The species has a long, down-curved bill and a distinctive white rump, which is used to differentiate it from other species of curlews. Regarding diet, the Eurasian or common whimbrel feeds mainly on insects, crustaceans, and molluscs.
It has also been known to scavenge for food on beaches and mud flats. The species is a migratory bird, moving from its breeding grounds in subarctic regions to wintering areas in Africa, India, and Australia.
The Eurasian or common whimbrel is an essential species for conservation, as it indicates the health of wetland habitats. It is listed as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN. However, it is facing threats from habitat destruction and hunting.
12. Long-Billed Curlew
The long-billed curlew is a large shorebird native to North America and belongs to the Scolopacidae family. It is also called the “sickle bird” and the “candlestick bird”.
During the breeding season, this bird can be found in central and western North America, while during the winter, it will migrate south and closer to the coast to find food and shelter.
Its long bill helps it to probe deep into the sand and mud while foraging for food, making it an important species to help maintain healthy shoreline habitats.
The long-billed curlew plays an essential role in the health of the North American shoreline, and its presence indicates a healthy ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Numenius |
| Species | N. americanus |
13. Great Horned Owl
The great horned owl is a species of owl native to the Americas. It is one of the world’s most widespread and adaptable owl species, and its range stretches from the Arctic tundra to the southernmost tip of South America.
This owl species is also known as the tiger or hoot owl. The great horned owl is a large bird with a stout body and short tail. It has a large, rounded head, prominent ear tufts, and bright yellow eyes.
Its feathers are predominantly brown, buff, and grey, typically having a white throat and breast.
The great horned owl can make various vocalizations, including hoots, screams, and barks. The great horned owl is an opportunistic predator, hunting a wide variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates.
It is an ambush predator, often perching in a concealed location and waiting for prey to come close before attacking. It also hunts by flying low over the ground, searching for prey. Additionally, it is an active scavenger, often taking advantage of other animals’ kills.
The great horned owl is an incredibly adaptable species, able to survive in various habitats. It is found in forests, grasslands, deserts, and urban areas. It is a non-migratory species that often establishes permanent territories within its range.
The great horned owl is a fascinating bird species with a wide range and impressive adaptability. It is an excellent example of how nature can successfully adapt to changing environments.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Bubo |
| Species | B. virginianus |
14. Belted Kingfisher
The belted kingfisher is a large bird species belonging to the water kingfisher family. It is native to North America and known for being conspicuous and easily recognizable.
Traditionally, all bird species belonging to the Alcedinidae family, which includes water kingfishers, were placed in one family.
However, recent research has suggested that this family should be divided into three subfamilies to reflect each species’ unique characteristics better.
This division of the family will allow for a greater understanding of the different species that belong to the Alcedinidae family. It will help conservationists and researchers better preserve and protect these species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Megaceryle |
| Species | M. alcyon |
15. Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher
The blue-grey gnatcatcher is a species of bird found in North America. It is a small bird with a blue-grey colouration, hence its name. It is a songbird, meaning it has a melodious song. Its song has been described as a series of high-pitched, warbly notes.
The blue-grey gnatcatcher is found in various habitats, ranging from woodlands and scrublands to grasslands and wetlands. It typically nests in shrubs or trees and feeds on small insects such as aphids, flies, and mosquitoes.
It is a migratory species, and in the winter, it can be found in the southern parts of the United States, as well as in Mexico and Central America. The blue-grey gnatcatcher is a pretty common species with a stable population.
It is considered a species of most minor concern, according to the IUCN Red List.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Polioptilidae |
| Genus | Polioptila |
| Species | P. caerulea |
16. Red-Winged Blackbird
The red-winged blackbird is a type of bird belonging to the Icteridae family. It is found in various habitats across North and Central America. The red-winged blackbird is a passerine, meaning it is a member of the order Passeriformes, which consists of perching birds.
The red-winged blackbird is relatively large, usually 8 and 10 inches long. Its plumage is primarily black, with a distinctive red patch on its wings.
The red-winged blackbird is also characterized by its long, pointed bill, which is used to feed on seeds and insects. The red-winged blackbird is a social species, often gathering in large flocks during the breeding season.
This species is also quite vocal, producing various calls and songs.
The red-winged blackbird is a migratory species, with some populations migrating south for the winter months. In addition to its presence in the wild, the red-winged blackbird is also a famous cage bird.
Its bright colouration and vocalizations make it a popular choice among bird enthusiasts. The red-winged blackbird is also a conservation concern, with some populations declining in recent decades due to habitat loss and other threats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
17. Yellow-Rumped Warbler
The yellow-rumped warbler is a migratory bird species commonly found in North America. It is a medium-sized bird with distinctive yellow patches on the rump, wings, and tail. It has a long, thin bill, a brownish-grey head, white throat and breast.
The species is known for its distinct song, consisting of short, high-pitched notes. The yellow-rumped warbler breeds across much of the continent during the summer. They typically choose wet areas like marshes, bogs, wet meadows, and streamside thickets.
In the winter, they migrate south to the Gulf Coast, southern Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean.
They can also be seen during migration in the eastern United States and Central America. The yellow-rumped warbler is an opportunistic feeder, eating various insects, berries, and seeds.
During the summer, they feed mainly on insects; in the winter, they switch to a more seed-based diet. They often gather in large flocks to forage, particularly when migrating. The yellow-rumped warbler is an essential species for North American birders.
It is one of the most widely distributed species on the continent and can be found in various habitats. Its distinctive song and bright colours make it a favourite among birders and nature lovers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. coronata |
18. American Goldfinch
The American goldfinch is a member of the finch family and is native to North America. It can be found in a wide range during the breeding season, ranging from mid-Alberta to North Carolina.
It migrates to more southern areas during the winter, from just south of the Canada-United States border to Mexico. This tiny bird is renowned for its colourful plumage and is a famous sight in many gardens and parks.
The American goldfinch is known to feed on various seeds and insects and is a friendly and active species. During winter, they often form large flocks to protect themselves from cold temperatures.
This species is an integral part of the native North American ecosystem and plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the local environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
19. American Robin
The American robin is a migratory bird species belonging to the valid thrush genus and Turdidae, a more prominent family of thrushes. It has been named robin due to its reddish-orange breast, similar to the European robin.
However, despite the similar name and colour of their respective breasts, the two species are not closely related. The European robin belongs to the Old World flycatcher family, distinct from the American robin.
The American robin is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 25 cm in length and having a wingspan of around 33 cm. Its back is mainly grey-brown, while its breast is a bright reddish-orange. It is a songbird whose call is a loud, warbling series of notes.
Its diet consists mainly of worms, insects, and fruit, and it is commonly seen in parks and gardens. The American robin is a famous bird among bird watchers in much of North America.
During the winter, large flocks of robins migrate southward to the warmer climates of Mexico and Central America. It is a hardy species that can survive in various habitats, from forests and woodlands to urban areas.
The American robin is an essential species in North America, as it helps to control the population of some of the region’s pests.
In addition, it plays an essential role in the dispersal of seeds and the pollination of flowers, thereby helping to maintain the local ecosystem’s health.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
20. Ruby-Crowned Kinglet
The ruby-crowned kinglet is a tiny passerine bird found throughout North America. It belongs to the kinglet family and is easily distinguishable by its olive-green plumage, two white wing bars, and a white eye ring.
Males of the species have the added feature of a red crown patch, though it is usually not visible from a distance. The ruby-crowned kinglet is an active and interested bird, often seen fluttering around for food.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. During the breeding season, the male will perform a courtship display to attract a mate. The female builds the nest, usually placed near the ground in a shrub or small tree.
The female will incubate the eggs, while the male will feed her. Once the chicks have hatched, both parents will help feed the young until they leave the nest.
The ruby-crowned kinglet is an integral part of many North American ecosystems, providing food for various predators and helping maintain the balance of the food web.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Regulidae |
| Genus | Corthylio |
| Species | C. calendula |
21. Golden-Crowned Sparrow
The golden-crowned sparrow is a species of bird belonging to the New World sparrow family. It is native to the western part of North America, ranging from Alaska and British Columbia south to California, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico.
It has a large bill, a long tail, and a bright yellow crown on its head. This species has a brownish-grey body, white throat, and white stripes on its wings and tail. The golden-crowned sparrow is typically found in thick brush, woodlands, and dense vegetation.
During the breeding season, the males perform a courting song, singing while flicking their tails and wings and raising their crown feathers. It is omnivorous, eating seeds, fruits, insects, and other small invertebrates.
The golden-crowned sparrow is a common sight in western North America and can often be seen foraging for food in open areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Zonotrichia |
| Species | Z. atricapilla |
22. Western Grebe
The western grebe is a species of bird that belongs to the grebe family of water birds. It is sometimes called a dabchick, swan grebe, or swan-necked grebe.
This water bird species is found in North and South America and prefers to inhabit freshwater lakes, rivers, and marshes. They are easily recognizable due to their unique physical features, such as long, slender necks and bright white and black plumage.
They are expert swimmers and divers, and they use their webbed feet to propel them through the water. Western grebes are also known for their spectacular mating display, which includes a complex courtship ritual.
The birds swim synchronized during this ritual, with their heads moving in tandem and their wings beating in unison.
This water bird species is also an essential part of the ecosystem, as they help keep the water bodies clean by eating small fish, crustaceans, and amphibians.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Aechmophorus |
| Species | A. occidentalis |
23. Chestnut-Backed Chickadee
The chestnut-backed chickadee is a small bird that is native to the Pacific Northwest of the United States and western Canada. It was formerly classified as Parus rufescens and is part of the tit family, Paridae.
The bird’s range spans from southern Alaska to southwestern California. The chestnut-backed chickadee is a small passerine bird, an active, ground-feeding songbird. It has a unique call that sounds like a two-note “chick-a-dee-dee” sound.
Its back is a distinctive chestnut brown with a white or greyish face. It is a social species often seen in flocks of up to 20 birds. The chestnut-backed chickadee is an omnivore which eats insects and plant matter.
Its diet typically consists of small invertebrates such as spiders, caterpillars, beetles, fruits, seeds, and nuts.
The bird will also visit bird feeders for an easy meal. The chestnut-backed chickadee is an essential species for the Pacific Northwest, where it plays a vital role in the local ecology.
It helps to control insect populations, disperses seeds, and provides food for larger predators. It is also important to humans, as its presence in an area is often seen as a sign of a healthy, diverse ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Poecile |
| Species | P. rufescens |
Conclusion
exploring the avian diversity in Grover Beach unveils a rich tapestry of winged wonders. From the majestic Western Gull to the elusive Snowy Plover, each bird adds a unique charm to the coastal ecosystem.
Through observing and appreciating these 23 species, we not only gain insight into their behaviours and habitats but also foster a deeper connection with the natural world around us.
As stewards of our environment, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of preserving these habitats for both resident and migratory birds.