Top 15 Types Of Birds In San Diego (With Pictures)

Journey through our visual guide to discover the top 15 bird species in San Diego, each with unique traits and stunning images.

birds of san diego

San Diego's bird population showcases a variety of species adapted to its diverse habitats. Among the notable birds are the American Crow, known for its intelligence and adaptability, and Anna's Hummingbird, identifiable by its vibrant pink-red throat and present year-round. The Bewick's Wren and the Black Phoebe thrive in specific local environments, feeding on insects and utilizing natural resources for nest-building. The Bushtit, a small bird with intricate nesting habits, crafts unique homes from spider webs and moss. These bird species exemplify the ecological richness of San Diego, offering glimpses into their adapted lifestyles. Discovering more about each species will enhance your appreciation for San Diego's avian diversity.

American Crow

intelligent adaptable black bird

The American Crow is a prevalent bird in San Diego, known for its intelligence and adaptability. It is recognized by its heavy, straight bill and communal nature. These omnivorous birds thrive in urban and suburban environments, displaying remarkable intelligence. Their nesting habits in trees and large shrubs, along with their role in controlling insect populations, highlight their ecological importance among birds in San Diego.

Anna's Hummingbird

vibrant iridescent green feathers

While the American Crow thrives across varied landscapes, Anna's Hummingbird offers a glimpse into the unique adaptations of smaller avian species in San Diego.

This medium-sized, stocky hummingbird, with males displaying vibrant pink-red throats, is a year-round resident. They feed on nectar and small insects, utilizing hummingbird feeders.

Their flight is marked by a distinctive buzzing sound, adding a lively presence to the region.

Bewick's Wren

small brown perky songbird

Renowned for its slender body and long tail, Bewick's Wren is a medium-sized bird that thrives in San Diego's chaparral habitats.

It feeds on beetles, ants, caterpillars, spiders, and occasionally berries.

These birds skillfully build nests in cavities using twigs, moss, and even snakeskin, creating secure environments for their young in dense shrubs or low trees.

Black Phoebe

little bird with black plumage

Often spotted near San Diego's calm waters, the Black Phoebe is a small yet robust songbird characterized by its large head and medium-long tail.

These black phoebes primarily feast on insects and occasionally small fish. Their nests, crafted from mud and lined with soft materials, are typically found in sheltered spots near water, enhancing their feeding opportunities.

Bushtit

small gray bird

Shifting focus to another avian species native to San Diego, the Bushtit is a small bird notable for its energetic presence and unique nesting habits. In San Diego County, these diminutive birds craft elaborate nests from spider webs, moss, and feathers, resembling tiny, intricate pockets in trees or shrubs.

They feed on insects, spiders, berries, and seeds, displaying active foraging behavior and social interactions within their flocks.

California Scrub-Jay

distinctive blue bird species

How does the California Scrub-Jay, with its bold behavior and vibrant blue plumage, thrive in the diverse ecosystems of San Diego?

These omnivorous birds are often seen in residential areas, caching food which aids both survival and seed dispersal.

Their distinctive, raucous calls and striking appearance make them easily recognizable, playing vital roles in insect control and ecosystem balance within their habitats.

California Thrasher

distinctive bird of california

The California Thrasher is easily identifiable by its long, curved bill and melodious song. It thrives in the chaparral habitats of San Diego County. This bird has brownish-gray plumage and forages on the ground for insects, seeds, and berries, using its distinctive bill to probe the soil.

Nesting in dense shrubs, California Thrashers are integral to local conservation efforts aimed at preserving their natural environment.

California Towhee

ground dwelling bird in california

Often spotted in the chaparral habitats of San Diego County, the California Towhee is characterized by its large size, matte brown plumage, and thick beak.

This bird, with its plain brown coloration, forages on the ground, often using a distinctive leaf-kicking behavior to uncover hidden food.

It is a common sight in residential areas, nesting in dense shrubs and feeding on scattered sunflower seeds.

Cassin's Kingbird

southwestern bird with crown

Shifting focus from the ground-dwelling California Towhee, Cassin's Kingbird presents a striking contrast with its aerial agility and vibrant coloration. Common in San Diego, this medium-sized bird features a gray head, yellow belly, and distinctive black tail with a white tip.

It thrives in pine and oak groves, feeding on insects, and offers birdwatchers fascinating glimpses into its agile hunting and habitat preferences.

Common Raven

intelligent black bird symbolizing mischief

Renowned for their sharp intellect and striking all-black appearance, Common Ravens are a prominent feature of San Diego's avian landscape.

These large songbirds display bold intelligence, often solving complex problems. Less social than crows, they exhibit solitary behavior but adapt easily across diverse environments, from forests to urban settings.

Their croaking calls and aerial skills are distinctive in San Diego's skies.

Domestic Pigeon

pigeon breeding and care

While Common Ravens are celebrated for their solitary nature and problem-solving skills, Domestic Pigeons are equally notable for their sociability and remarkable homing abilities.

Commonly seen as backyard birds in urban settings, these pigeons are admired for their diverse colors and patterns, particularly the blue-bar. They mate for life, showcasing their loyalty, and excel in adapting to various urban environments.

European Starling

invasive bird species introduced

Originating from Europe, the European Starling has become an invasive species in San Diego County, competing aggressively with native birds for resources.

These birds, recognized by their iridescent plumage and chunky bodies, exhibit noisy behavior and often move in large groups.

They nest in enclosed spaces like tree cavities, posing significant threats to local avian populations due to their aggressive competitive nature.

Great Horned Owl

majestic nocturnal predator bird

The Great Horned Owl, distinguished by its imposing presence and characteristic tufts that resemble ears, is a prevalent species in San Diego County.

With a wingspan of 3.3 to 4.8 feet, these nocturnal predators hunt various prey, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Their haunting hoots resonate through the night, echoing across diverse habitats from dense forests to bustling urban areas.

Hooded Oriole

vibrant orange and black

Hooded Orioles, recognized by their striking black hoods and vivid orange plumage, are a common sight in San Diego's tree-rich landscapes. These birds skillfully construct hanging pouch nests from grass and plant fibers.

Known for their melodious songs, Hooded Orioles forage for insects and nectar, thriving in areas with abundant trees and shrubs, where they also engage in vibrant displays during the breeding season.

What Types of Small Birds Can Be Found in San Diego?

San Diego is home to a variety of types of small birds in California. Some common sightings include Anna’s Hummingbird, California Towhee, and the Black Phoebe. These small birds can be found in parks, gardens, and coastal areas throughout the city, delighting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. San Diego’s diverse habitats also attract types of birds at the beach, where visitors can spot species like the Snowy Plover and Sanderlings scurrying along the shoreline. These coastal birds are a favorite among photographers and birdwatchers who enjoy observing their behaviors in the sand and surf. Whether inland or at the ocean’s edge, San Diego offers a rich tapestry of avian life for everyone to enjoy.

Horned Lark

small bird with horns

Horned Larks, easily identified by their unique black facial masks and feathered 'horns', are a frequent sight in San Diego's open landscapes. These small songbirds thrive in grasslands and deserts, feeding on seeds and insects.

Males impress females with high-flying displays during breeding season. Adapted to arid conditions, Horned Larks are observable throughout the year in this region.