El Nino Heat Wave Drives Seabird Die-Off in California
A persistent marine heat wave has left thousands of common murres starving along the California coast.
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Have you noticed more dead or struggling seabirds on your local coast this year?
California Bird Watching News
Bird watching in California covers rare sightings, migration patterns, population studies and the birding community. Across California, coverage here takes in birding festivals, identification tools and the outdoor hobby itself.
Recent news
November 10, 2026
Amtrak Surfliner Crosses New Batiquitos Lagoon BridgeThe inaugural run marks progress on a $166 million double-tracking project along the LOSSAN rail corridor in Southern California.
November 2, 2026
Ojai Raptor Center Releases Rehabilitated Golden EagleA golden eagle hit by a suspected vehicle along Highway 58 in Kern County was cleared for release after 72 days of care.
October 24, 2026
Avian Flu Threatens California Peregrine Falcon NestsThe HPAI virus is linked to a significant decline in peregrine falcon nesting activity across the California Channel Islands.
October 23, 2026
Wildfire Smoke Harms California Bird PopulationsEcologists warn that smoke inhalation is causing respiratory damage and increased mortality among wild birds in the region.
October 21, 2026
Turkey Vultures Migrate Through CaliforniaThousands of vultures are soaring south from British Columbia toward Mexico for the winter.
October 21, 2026
West Nile Virus Cases Hit Five-Year High in CaliforniaState health officials report 378 human infections as mosquito activity rises across major Southern California counties.
October 14, 2026
California Protected Mt. Pinos Sooty GrouseThe California Fish and Game Commission designated the bird as a candidate for endangered status.
October 13, 2026
Camp Pendleton Tested Artificial Bird HabitatsResearchers operated water-pumping seeps at the Santa Margarita River to support migratory Willow Flycatcher populations.
October 10, 2026
California Restored Tidal Marsh Boosted Bird PopulationsThe 1,187-acre Dutch Slough project saw significant growth in bird density between 2020 and 2025.
October 7, 2026
California Owl Study Found Rodenticide Exposure ShiftsResearchers documented changing rates of rat poison exposure among Northern California owl populations.
More in Bird Watching
Day to day, that means rare bird sightings that draw crowds, population research on resident and migratory species, and the festivals and clubs that bring birders together. Coverage reaches from the state's coastal wetlands to its mountain forests and desert basins. The state's position on major flyways means spring and fall migration generate a steady run of stories. Shifts in migration timing linked to climate change are a recurring thread that ties many of these stories together.