Welcome to Seal Beach, where the birds are plentiful! With a wide variety of species, ranging from the majestic bald eagle to small shorebirds, you can find the perfect spot to observe and appreciate the wonders of bird watching.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Seal Beach is a great place to enjoy the beauty of avian life. With various habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and even the ocean, you can find a wide array of birds, some of which can only be found in this area.
Explore the many species of birds that call Seal Beach home and enjoy the beauty of nature that is found here.
24 Birds Found in Seal Beach
If you are a bird lover, you might want to visit Seal Beach, a coastal city in Orange County, California. Seal Beach is home to a variety of birds, some of which are rare or endangered.
Here are 24 birds that you can find in Seal Beach, along with some facts and tips on how to spot them.
1. Great Blue Heron
The great blue heron is a majestic species of bird native to North and Central America and parts of South America, the Caribbean, and the Galápagos Islands. It is a member of the Ardeidae family, including egrets and bitterns.
This large wading bird is adept at navigating both the shores of open water and the wetlands in its range. The great blue heron stands out among its relatives for its size, as it is one of the largest heron species. It has long legs and a long, curved neck.
Its wingspan can reach up to six feet and typically stands between 3.2 and 4.5 feet tall. The great blue heron has a blue-gray coloration, giving it its name, and a white head with a black stripe running down the center.
It also has a black stripe around its neck, and its feathers are often tinged with purple or green. The great blue heron is a carnivorous bird, and its diet consists mainly of small aquatic creatures like frogs, fish, snakes, and crayfish.
Its long beak and neck are critical tools for hunting successfully, and the heron often stands motionless in the water, waiting for prey to come close enough to catch. It also uses its wings to swoop down and grab unsuspecting prey quickly.
The great blue heron is a beautiful sight to behold in the wild. Its large wingspan and impressive size make it an attractive and iconic bird in its range. Its presence near wetlands and open water is a reminder of the importance of protecting these delicate ecosystems.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Pelecaniformes |
Family | Ardeidae |
Genus | Ardea |
Species | A. herodias |
2. Brown Pelican
The brown pelican is a species of bird belonging to the family Pelecanidae. It is one of three species of pelicans found in the Americas, and two of these species feed by diving into water.
This pelican species is identifiable by its brown plumage and has a wingspan of up to nine feet. It is an iconic species of the southern coast of the United States and is often seen along the shorelines of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
The brown pelican has an interesting method of feeding. It will fly in the air and then dive into the water to catch its prey. This allows it to access prey that is deeper in the water. It is an efficient hunter and can catch up to five pounds of fish in one dive.
The brown pelican is an integral part of the ocean’s food web and helps to keep fish populations in check. It is also essential to coastal habitats, providing food and shelter for other species.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Pelecaniformes |
Family | Pelecanidae |
Genus | Pelecanus |
Species | P. occidentalis |
3. Black Bellied Plover
The grey plover is a large bird that is found across the world. It is also known as the black-bellied plover in North America. This species breeds in the Arctic and is a long-distance migrant. During migration, it can be found in coastal areas worldwide.
The grey plover is a strong flyer, allowing it to cover long distances during migration. It strongly prefers coastal areas but can also be found in inland wetlands and mudflats. Its diet includes insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and other small invertebrates.
The grey plover is an essential species for the conservation of coastal environments. It is an indicator species for wetland health, so any changes in its population can serve as an early warning of environmental changes.
It is also essential for local economies, as its presence attracts birdwatchers and other tourists to coastal areas. The grey plover is vulnerable to human activities such as coastal development and climate change.
Its coastal habitats are being destroyed and degraded at an alarming rate, leading to declines in its population. Protecting its breeding areas and habitats is essential to ensure its survival.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Charadriidae |
Genus | Pluvialis |
Species | P. squatarola |
4. Double-Crested Cormorant
The double-crested cormorant is a water bird species belonging to the cormorant family. It is found in various habitats, from rivers and lakes to coastal areas, and can be seen across much of North America.
It is particularly abundant in the northern regions, ranging from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska to Florida and Mexico. This bird is highly adaptable and can be seen in various environments, from coastal estuaries to inland wetlands.
It is an excellent swimmer and often dives deep beneath the surface to catch its prey. The double-crested cormorant is a large bird, usually appearing black or dark brown, with yellow eyes and a pale patch of feathers on its throat.
Its most characteristic feature is the two crests of feathers on its head, which it raises during courtship displays. It is a social bird, usually found in large flocks, and can often be seen perched on a rocky outcrop or tree limb near the water’s edge.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Suliformes |
Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
Genus | Nannopterum |
Species | N. auritum |
5. Willet
The willet is a large shorebird that belongs to the family Scolopacidae. It is a species of sandpiper known as a shank and is one of the most prominent members of the genus Tringa.
The willet is a distinctively large and robust bird with a body length of up to 40 cm and a wingspan of up to 60 cm. Willets are usually greyish-brown, with a white rump and two white wing bars. The bill is long and pointed, and its legs are yellowish.
The willet is a migratory species found along the coasts of North and South America and in parts of Europe and Asia. It feeds on various small invertebrates, such as crabs, shrimp, mollusks, worms, and insects.
It builds its nest on the ground during the breeding season, and the female incubates the eggs. The willet is an essential species in the coastal environment, as it helps keep the shoreline clean by feeding on small invertebrates.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Tringa |
Species | T. semipalmata |
6. Snowy Egret
The snowy egret is a small white heron in many parts of the world. Its scientific name, Egretta thula, is derived from two sources. The genus name comes from Provençal French, where it is called aigrette, meaning “little egret.”
This is a diminutive of Saigon, the French word for “heron.” The species name, thula, is the Araucano term for the black-necked swan. The Chilean naturalist Juan Ignacio Molina mistakenly applied this name to the snowy egret in 1782.
The snowy egret is a medium-sized white heron with bright yellow feet, easily identifiable in the wild. It has long, thin, black legs and a long, pointed bill. Its wingspan can reach up to two feet, and its body length can range from 11 to 14 inches.
The snowy egret is found in many habitats, such as wetlands, ponds, rivers, and lakes. It is a relatively common bird in many parts of the world and is usually seen in small flocks. The snowy egret is an essential species in the ecosystem.
It is an efficient predator and feeds on fish, insects, frogs, and crustaceans. It also helps to keep the water clean by eating the decaying material. The snowy egret also provides critical nesting sites for other species of birds.
In addition, its feathers were once highly sought after for use in the millinery industry. Overall, the snowy egret is an essential species in the environment, and its scientific name reflects its importance and the confusion surrounding its original identification.
The generic name comes from Provençal French, while the species name comes from the Araucano term for the black-necked swan, which was mistakenly used to describe the snowy egret. Its unique plumage, diet, and nesting habits make it an essential species in the ecosystem.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Pelecaniformes |
Family | Ardeidae |
Genus | Egretta |
Species | E. thula |
7. American White Pelican
The American white pelican is a large, majestic bird belonging to Pelecaniformes. It is a soaring bird that can glide on air currents for extended periods.
This pelican species is found in North America and breeds in the continent’s interior. During winter, many of these birds migrate south and to the coasts, traveling as far as Costa Rica.
The American white pelican is an impressive sight and can often be seen in large flocks, with each flock containing up to several thousand birds. The species is easily recognizable due to its large size and white feathers, with some adults having wingspans that exceed 11 feet.
Their large bills and pouches are distinctive features that help identify the American white pelican.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Pelecaniformes |
Family | Pelecanidae |
Genus | Pelecanus |
Species | P. erythrorhynchos |
8. American Avocet
The American Avocet is a distinctive-looking bird with long legs and a thin, up-curved bill. It belongs to the avocet and stilt family, known as Recurvirostridae, and is found in North America.
The American avocet feeds mainly on small crustaceans and insects in shallow water or mud flats. It employs a unique ”sweeping” method to find its prey, moving its bill from side to side in the water.
This technique allows the avocet to detect its prey more easily. The birds have long been appreciated for their beauty and curious behavior, making them a famous sight in North American wetlands.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Recurvirostridae |
Genus | Recurvirostra |
Species | R. americana |
9. Greater Yellowlegs
The greater yellowleg is a species of large shorebird found in the family Scolopacidae. It is a migratory bird, breeding in central Canada and southern Alaska during the summer months and spending the winter in various parts of the Americas.
During its breeding season, the bird prefers secluded and wet areas, such as marshes, bogs, and tundra.
When winter arrives, the bird flies to warmer climates, such as southern North America, Central America, the West Indies, and South America. The greater yellowlegs is a slim, medium-sized shorebird with a long, pointed bill.
Its upperparts are grayish with a darker head and neck, while its underparts are white with black markings.
It has long yellow legs, the source of its name, and a white tail with dark barring. The bird is usually found in coastal areas and wetlands, feeding on small invertebrates and insects.
It has been seen foraging in the shallow waters of marshes and estuaries, often in large flocks.
The greater yellowlegs also feed on small fish, crayfish, and amphibians. The greater yellowleg is an important species to conservationists, who try to protect its breeding and wintering habitats.
It is also essential to the tourism industry, as it is a famous bird to watch and photograph. The greater yellowleg is a widely distributed species with a large global population, so it is not currently listed as a threatened species.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Tringa |
Species | T. melanoleuca |
10. Surf Scoter
The Surf Scoter is a large sea duck native to North America. Adult males of this species are almost entirely black, with distinctive white patches on the forehead and nape.
These white patches are unique to this duck species and make it easy to tell them apart from other duck species. Females of this species are slightly smaller and browner than the males.
The Surf Scoter is a migratory species, and it can be found in coastal waters of both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. It usually feeds on mollusks, crustaceans, and occasionally fish. This species is also hunted for its meat and eggs.
The Surf Scoter is an essential species for the balance of aquatic ecosystems, and it is vital to protect and conserve this species.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Melanitta |
Species | M. perspicillata |
11. Long-Billed Curlew
The long-billed curlew is a large shorebird native to North America. It is part of the family Scolopacidae and has been given many different names, including “sickle-bird” and “candlestick bird.”
This species breeds in North America’s central and western regions, migrating south and to the coast for the winter months. Its long bill and curved wings make it an easily recognizable species, and it can often be found foraging in shallow water or along the shoreline.
The long-billed curlew feeds on small crustaceans, insects, and worms, using its long bill to probe the mud for food. It is an integral part of the North American shorebird population, and its presence provides a vital link in the food chain.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Numenius |
Species | N. americanus |
12. White-tailed kite
The white-tailed kite is a species of raptor found in western North America and parts of South America. It is a medium-sized bird of prey with a wingspan of around 96 cm and a body length of around 40 cm.
The coloration of the white-tailed kite is distinctive, with a white head and tail, grey body, and black wingtips.
The name “kite” comes from the bird’s habit of hovering in the air while searching for prey. The white-tailed kite is closely related to the Old World black-winged kite found in Europe, Africa, and Asia.
The two species share many of the same characteristics, but the white-tailed kite has a different range; while the black-winged kite is found in the Old World, the white-tailed kite is found in North and South America.
The two species also differ in size, with the white-tailed kite being slightly smaller.
Despite their differences, both kite species are known for their impressive aerial acrobatics; they often soar gracefully in the air and can perform complex maneuvers to catch their prey.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Accipitriformes |
Family | Accipitridae |
Genus | Elanus |
Species | E. leucurus |
13. Dunlin
The Dunlin is a small wader, a bird generally found near water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands. It was formerly grouped with a family of birds known as ‘stints’ and placed in the genus Erolia.
The English name for the Dunlin is thought to come from the old English word ‘dunling’, first recorded in 1531-1532. The word ‘dun’ refers to a dull brown color, and the suffix ‘ling’ refers to a person or thing with a given quality.
Therefore, the name ‘dunling’ likely refers to the dull brown color of the Dunlin. The Dunlin is a common sight in many parts of the world and an essential part of the wetland ecosystem.
They feed on insects, crustaceans, and mollusks, providing an important food source for other animals in the area. In recent years, the population of Dunlin has been declining due to several threats, such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.
Conservation efforts are in place to help protect the Dunlin and ensure its future survival.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Calidris |
Species | C. alpina |
14. Belted Kingfisher
The belted kingfisher is a species of water kingfisher native to North America. It is a large bird with distinct blue and white plumage, which makes it highly conspicuous in its natural habitat.
All kingfisher species have traditionally been placed in the same family, Alcedinidae. However, recent scientific research has suggested that this family should be divided into three distinct subfamilies based on physical characteristics and behavioral differences.
This new classification has been proposed to reflect the kingfisher species’ diversity better and allow for a better understanding of their unique evolutionary histories.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Coraciiformes |
Family | Alcedinidae |
Genus | Megaceryle |
Species | M. alcyon |
15. American Coot
The American coot is a bird that belongs to the Rallidae family and is also referred to as a mud hen or rouleau. It is often confused for a duck. However, it is only distantly related to them. This is because it belongs to a separate order.
The American coot is a medium-sized bird, about 11 to 15 inches long. It has a black head and neck and a white bill. Its wings are dark grey, and its back is grey-brown. It has a distinctive white patch at the base of its tail, and its legs and feet are grey.
Its diet consists of aquatic vegetation, insects, and mollusks. It is found throughout much of North America and is a typical visitor to wetlands, ponds, and other bodies of water.
The American coot is an interesting bird with a unique appearance, and its distinctive call can often be heard in the stillness of the morning air.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Gruiformes |
Family | Rallidae |
Genus | Fulica |
Species | F. americana |
16. Brant
The brant or Brent goose is a small goose belonging to the genus Branta.
There are three distinct subspecies of the brant or Brent goose, all of which migrate to temperate sea coasts in the wintertime and breed in the Arctic tundra during the summer months.
The Brent oilfield is located in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland and Northern Ireland, and it was named after this species of goose.
“Brent” is derived from the Old English word “brant,” the same word used to describe the goose species.
The oilfield likely took its name from the abundance of the brant or Brent goose in the area, as it provides an ideal habitat for the species. The brant or Brent goose is a species of bird that has a vital role in the global ecosystem.
Breeding in the Arctic tundra helps maintain the region’s wildlife balance. Additionally, its winter migration helps to spread nutrients and bacteria across the planet, aiding in the environment’s overall health.
For this reason, it is essential to protect the brand or Brent goose and its habitat to ensure our planet’s health.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Branta |
Species | B. bernicla |
17. Red Knot
The red knot, or the just knot, is a medium-sized shorebird in the far north of Canada, Europe, and Russia. It is a part of the Calidris sandpipers and is the second-largest species in the group, with only the great knot being more giant.
It is found in habitats including tundra and the Arctic Cordillera. Six subspecies of the red knot have been recognized, each with unique characteristics, including size, color, and range.
The red knot has a distinctive red-brown plumage that can vary between subspecies, with the head, neck, and chest usually a darker shade than the back and tail. The bill is also variable in color, ranging from black to yellowish-brown.
During migration, the red knot may travel thousands of miles to reach its wintering grounds, which may be in Africa or as far away as Australia. The red knot is an essential species for various reasons.
Its migratory behavior is an integral part of the global ecosystem, and its presence in certain areas can help maintain the environment’s health. Additionally, it is an important food source for many species of birds and mammals during its breeding season.
As such, conservation efforts to protect the red knot and its habitat are essential for maintaining healthy species populations.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Calidris |
Species | C. canutus |
18. Western Grebe
The western grebe is a unique water bird species in the grebe family. It is identifiable by its long, thin neck and pointed bill. It is also known by several nicknames, including “dabchick,” “swan grebe,” and “swan-necked grebe.”
This species is known to inhabit wetlands and coastal areas, where it hunts for small aquatic creatures such as fish, insects, and crustaceans. It has a unique swimming ability, which involves propelling itself forward in the water with its feet.
It also performs elaborate courtship rituals on the water, such as the “penguin dance,” where two birds link bills and perform a synchronized swimming display. The western grebe is a beautiful species of bird that can be seen in many parts of the world.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Podicipediformes |
Family | Podicipedidae |
Genus | Aechmophorus |
Species | A. occidentalis |
19. Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s hummingbird is a species of bird that belongs to the Trochilidae family. It was named after Anna Masséna, Duchess of Rivoli, a 19th-century French noblewoman.
This species is native to the western coastal regions of North America and was primarily found in northern Baja, California, and Southern California in the early 20th century. The Anna’s hummingbird is a medium-sized bird with a body length of 8-9 cm.
Its wingspan measures 10-11 cm, and its weight ranges from 3-6 grams. It has a metallic green upper body with a white underside.
The males have a reddish-pink patch on their throats, while the females lack this feature. Anna’s hummingbird is a very active species and spends most of its time flying for food. Its diet consists of nectar, small insects, and spiders.
They can also hover in the air while feeding and even fly backward! In terms of behavior, Anna’s hummingbird is very territorial and will defend its area fiercely against other hummingbirds.
The males are known for their loud and complex calls, often performing display flights to attract females.
Anna’s hummingbird is a genuinely fascinating species, and it is an excellent addition to any backyard! It symbolizes hope and freedom, and its presence in the garden will bring joy and beauty.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Clade | Strisores |
Order | Apodiformes |
Family | Trochilidae |
Genus | Calypte |
Species | C. anna |
20. Reddish Egret
The Reddish Egret is a species of heron that resides and breeds in Central America, The Bahamas, the Caribbean, the Gulf Coast of the United States, and Mexico. This heron is medium-sized and known for its unique foraging behavior compared to other herons.
It also prefers to inhabit mud flats, which are shallow water areas covered with mud. The Reddish Egret is unique in its behavior. It is often seen running and chasing its prey, which is uncommon among other herons.
It also uses its wings to create shade, which allows it to stay in one spot while waiting for its prey to appear.
This behavior of chasing and shading is known as “regretting” and is a distinct trait of the Reddish Egret. The Reddish Egret is also associated with mud flats since this is its preferred habitat.
Mudflats provide the ideal environment for the egret as they are shallow, warm waters offering various prey.
The Reddish Egret can forage in these mud flats for small fish, crabs, and other marine life. The Reddish Egret is a medium-sized heron resident breeder in Central America, The Bahamas, the Caribbean, the Gulf Coast of the United States, and Mexico.
It is known for its unusual foraging behavior and its association with mud flats, its habitat of choice.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Pelecaniformes |
Family | Ardeidae |
Genus | Egretta |
Species | E. rufescens |
21. Western Gull
The Western Gull is a seagull species inhabiting the west coast of North America and the Pacific Ocean. It is a large bird with a white head and grey body.
Its range stretches from the northern parts of British Columbia in Canada to Baja California in Mexico. The Western Gull was previously considered the same species as the Yellow-footed Gull found in the Gulf of California.
However, recent research has shown that the two are distinct species, with the Western Gull having a more extensive range.
The two species have some physical differences, such as the Western Gull having a larger bill and a more pointed head than the Yellow-footed Gull.
The Western Gull is an essential species in the ecosystem of the west coast of North America, as it is a top predator and helps to keep the populations of smaller birds and fish in check.
It is also a familiar sight to people living in coastal areas, as it is often seen scavenging for food around beaches, piers, and other areas where people come into contact with the ocean.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Laridae |
Genus | Larus |
Species | L. occidentalis |
22. Lesser Scaup
The lesser scaup is a small North American diving duck known for migrating south for the winter. This duck is recognizable by its distinctive blue bill, which has given it the colloquial names of the little bluebill and broadbill.
The lesser scaup breeds along the northern edges of the United States and Canada and can be found in large numbers in wetlands and lakes. In winter, they migrate south as far as Central America, where they can often be seen in large flocks.
The lesser scaup feeds mainly on aquatic organisms like small fish, crustaceans, and insects. They also graze on land, eating plant material such as seeds and grains. The lesser scaup is a famous bird for birdwatchers, as it is relatively easy to spot.
Its distinctive blue bill and habit of gathering in large flocks make it stand out from other ducks.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Aythya |
Species | A. affinis |
23. Savannah Sparrow
The Savannah sparrow is a small bird native to the New World. It belongs to the genus Passerculus, a group of birds that includes many species of small sparrows.
Historically, the Savannah sparrow was the only species within this genus, although some authorities recognize several other species.
However, the Savannah sparrow is still the only species of the genus Passerculus that is widely accepted and widely recognized. The Savannah sparrow is a ground-dwelling bird found in open grasslands and agricultural areas, usually near the coast.
It has a brown back, wings, white or pale gray chest, and belly. Its bill is usually yellow or orange. It is a small bird, typically measuring about 5.5-6.7 inches in length and weighing about 0.5-0.7 ounces.
The Savannah sparrow is an omnivore which eats plants and small animals. It primarily feeds on insects and eats grain, berries, and other fruits. It is an important food source for many predators, including hawks and owls.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Passeriformes |
Family | Passerellidae |
Genus | Passerculus |
Species | P. sandwichensis |
24. Black Phoebe
The black phoebe is a species of passerine bird belonging to the tyrant-flycatcher family of birds. Native to the western regions of the United States, from southwest Oregon and California, the bird is also found in Central and South America.
The black phoebe is known to inhabit these regions year-round, although its northern populations are only partially migratory. The black phoebe is known to migrate less than other members of its genus.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Passeriformes |
Family | Tyrannidae |
Genus | Sayornis |
Species | S. nigricans |
Conclusion
Seal Beach stands as a haven for bird-watching enthusiasts of all levels, offering a captivating array of avian species against the backdrop of diverse habitats.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a novice, the town’s coastal charm and rich biodiversity promise an enriching experience for all.
From the tranquil shores to the bustling marshlands, each location presents a unique opportunity to connect with nature and marvel at the wonders of birdlife.
With its picturesque landscapes and abundant bird species, Seal Beach undoubtedly ranks among the premier destinations for bird-watching, inviting enthusiasts to immerse themselves in its natural splendor.