Although the King Tide made it challenging for shorebirds, we had a great count this month with a number of rarities present, for a total of 119 species seen.  We had 2 new species, Greater Scaup in Area 2 and Golden-crowned Kinglet in Area 5, bringing our cumulative total to 257 species.  In addition, Area 2 also had White-breasted Nuthatch, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Vermilion Flycatcher.  A White-breasted Nuthatch was also seen in area 5, along with Grace’s Warbler, Mountain Chickadee, and Black-throated Gray Warbler.

This months featured image is of a Vermillion Flycatcher. Though these little birds are tougher to find in the park you will be delighted if you do. Photo taken by Ranger David Hekel.

Click here for the PDF document with results for the December 2021 count. Click here for the PDF document with the detailed monthly results through December 2021.

Click here for more information about the San Dieguito Lagoon Bird Surveys.