Birding at Big Morongo Canyon Preserve and adjacent Covington Park
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve is an internationally-recognized birding site. Several rare or unusual species are known to nest here, and many other species are abundant during the spring and fall migration seasons. The Preserve has been designated as one of the United States’ Important Bird Areas by the American Bird Conservancy, the American Birding Association, and Watchable Wildlife National Program, and is featured in the National Geographic Guide to Birdwatching Sites. It is also a hotspot for the popular Cornell Labs eBird program.
Resources for Birders
- Latest sightings reported on eBird at our hotspot (Big Morongo Canyon Preserve and Covington Park).
- Weekly Birding Reports. Sightings from recent Wednesday bird walks conducted by the Preserve’s long-standing bird group.
- Big Morongo Canyon Preserve bird checklist. Prepared by local birders; available online and as a printed checklist at the kiosk.
Observing birds
Many people walk the preserve’s trails informally every day and keep their own lists on paper or on eBird. Good locations besides the trails are trees around the parking lot, East drive from the Preserve to Covington Park, and the trails in Covington Park.
There is a bird observation area at the Preserve’s education center. There is a water feature there, hummingbird feeders, and seed feeders. There are picnic tables and a covered seating area for visitors. A portable toilet is available, and the location is accessible.
The adjacent Covington Park, operated by the local community of Morongo Valley, is connected to the Preserve and is also a popular spot for birds to gather and nest. There are also bird gathering areas along the streets adjacent to the Preserve and the Park.
Bird Walks
Wednesday Bird Walks
For over 20 years, Big Morongo Canyon Preserve has conducted weekly bird walks, led by knowledgeable birders who provide an enthusiastic and informative tour of the birds inhabiting Big Morongo Canyon Preserve and adjacent Covington Park. This walk is used to establish the species present in the Preserve each week. Beginning birders are welcome.
Saturday Bird Walks
Everyone can join this fun walk through the Preserve, learn to recognize birds by sound and song, see migratory birds that visit for a short while, and observe birds that nest every year in the Preserve. These are conducted as personnel are available, so check the calendar for upcoming events. Bring your binoculars! Some loaners are available.
How to Partipate
Meet at the Information Kiosk south of the parking lot. It’s free and reservations are not required. Of course, donations to Friends of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve are gratefully accepted.
Supporting the Preserve’s Bird Programs
The Preserve is staffed by volunteers who maintain the feeders at the education center, guide birdwalks, and keep the trails and bathrooms in good condition.
You can support our bird programs by making a donation or just dropping a few dollars in seed-funding box at the Education Center.
Birding Calendar
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