Southern California Bird Identification

Bird watchers have a difficult time identifying birds.

Over 555 different native birds inhabit Southern California. Identifying them requires a knowledge of their habitats, appearance and song. Bird watchers or ornithologists gain this knowledge through experience, classes, tours, books, audio tapes and talking to experts.

Expert Insight

Seek local experts to assist with questions concerning bird identification. The San Diego Natural History Museum contains an extensive collection of native bird exhibits, and has experts on staff. The Buena Vista Audubon Society offers field trips and classes led by experts.

Field Guides

The California Brown Pelican nests along the rocky island coasts of Southern California.

Published field guides specializing in Southern California birds will help with identification. The University of California Press publishes "An Introduction to Birds of the Southern California Coast." The American Birding Association recommends "A Birder's Guide to Southern California."

Audio Tapes

Birds have a distinctive song that allows ornithologist to identify them.

You don't necessarily have to see a bird to know it is there. Bird watchers identify birds by hearing them. Cornell University Lab of Ornithology offers a three CD collection featuring 220 species of California birds singing.

References

• University of California Press: "Introduction to Birds of the Southern California Coast"; Joan Easton Lentz; 2005
• American Birding Association: "A Birders Guide to Southern California"; Brad Schram; 2007
• San Diego Natural History Museum: Birds and Mammals
• National Audubon Society: Buena Vista: Field Trips
• Cornell University Lab of Ornithology: Bird Songs of California