Los Angeles Birding: The Los Angeles River
The pedestrian bridge has two viewing platforms so you can get a birds-eye view (pun intended) of the wildlife.
The LA River bike path stretches along a revitalized waterway that meanders through the heart of Northeast Los Angeles, offering an unexpected oasis in an urban landscape. This vibrant green space is dotted with lush vegetation, creating a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. As cyclists and pedestrians glide along the path, they are greeted by the soothing sounds of water and the gentle rustle of leaves, inviting them to explore every inch of this tranquil stretch.
Black-necked stilt (Himantopus mexicanus); notoriously the cutest shorebird.
Lesser goldfinch (Spinus psaltria) male.
Home to a remarkable array of Southern California bird species, the LA River bike path serves as an ideal location for birdwatching enthusiasts and casual observers alike. With its diverse habitats, ranging from riparian zones to open fields, the area attracts a multitude of avian visitors, making it a perfect spot for some leisurely birding. Whether you’re a seasoned ornithologist or simply looking to unwind in nature, the bike path offers an opportunity to connect with the vibrant ecosystem that thrives within this urban paradise.
This is my favorite spot for birdwatching, conveniently located just minutes from my home. Whenever I need a quick break from my hectic schedule, I can steal an hour or two to immerse myself in nature and observe the fascinating avian life. Before investing in my fancy birding lens, I would lace up my roller skates, allowing me to swiftly navigate the area and get closer to the birds with my binoculars. This unique combination of speed and observation made every outing an exhilarating experience, deepening my appreciation for the natural world right in my own backyard.
This year, the nesting period was slightly delayed, so you might still have the chance to see some young birds in the area. The extended nesting period provides a unique opportunity to observe fledglings and juvenile birds along the river.
Canada goose (Branta canadensis) with a baby - there were so many juvenile geese!
Double-crested cormorant (Nannopterum auritum).
Green heron (Butorides virescens).
Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax).
The LA River in Frogtown is a fantastic spot for bird lovers, packed with a lively mix of feathered friends right in the heart of Los Angeles. Take a walk along the bike path, and you'll hear the sweet sounds of various birds around you. Look up, and you might see the striking red-shouldered hawks soaring above, while cheerful warblers flit among the reeds. Keep your eyes peeled for great egrets wading gracefully in the shallow water and playful kingfishers zipping across the surface, showcasing the surprising array of birdlife thriving in this urban escape.
The vibe here is bustling, with fellow nature enthusiasts cycling by and families making the most of the peaceful surroundings. It’s all about the sense of community and a shared love for nature in this revitalized area. Each time you visit the LA River, there’s a new chapter in the story of its birdlife waiting to be discovered, reminding us of the beauty that can flourish even in the middle of the city. It makes for a simple yet enriching birding trip for anyone looking to reconnect with nature, just a stone's throw away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Allen’s hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin)
Anna’s hummingbird (Calypte anna) grooming after a bath.
There are many other species we typically see around the LA river, but I either didn’t get a photo or didn’t see them today include: American coot (Fulica americana), mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), hooded merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), belted kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon), killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), yellow warbler (Setophaga petechia), common yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas), and so many more. Check eBird or iNaturalist to see what is in the area at any given time of the year! If you are new to birding and want to learn how to bird by ear, I also recommend the app Merlin Bird ID.
Red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus). There were plenty of blackbirds around that day.
Snowy egret (Egretta thula) grooming.
Location: Entrances to the Los Angeles River Bike Path are located at the end of most residential streets west of the LA river in the Frogtown area. I like to park on Riverdale Ave off of Crystal St and walk north towards the pedestrian bridge, but there is wildlife along the whole stretch of the river.
Hours: Daylight (7 am - 7 pm)
Additional information:
Accessibility: The bike path itself is well-maintained and paved, but the entrances are not paved. There are a few parks that have more accessible entrances to the bike path, such as Marsh Park.
Signage: At the parks along the river, there are some signs about the river and its fauna.
Nature center: There is no nature center, but about a mile south, there is the non-profit organization Friends of the Los Angeles River.
Bathrooms: There are a few businesses along the river that have bathrooms, but may require a purchase before using.
Friendly reminder to leave no trace and respect wildlife when birding.
