Wildlife

Wildlife and Birdwatching on the Mendocino Coast

The Mendocino Coast is one of California’s richest wildlife regions, offering everything from migrating whales and playful sea otters to harbor seals basking on the rocks. Inland, ancient redwood groves and protected estuaries create a haven for an incredible range of species. Whether you’re strolling the headlands or paddling a quiet river, you’re likely to encounter some of the most iconic coastal wildlife in the state. Seasonal whale watching, especially during the March festivals in Fort Bragg and Mendocino, draws visitors from far and wide—but you’ll find marine life year-round with the help of expert local guides.

Birdwatching here is just as remarkable. Situated along the Pacific Flyway, the Mendocino Coast offers exceptional viewing of eagles, falcons, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Nature lovers can join Audubon Society walks, kayak birding excursions, or simply step out from The Anchor Lodge onto the Ten Mile Trail for world-class sightings. From botanical gardens to rivers, wetlands, and rugged shoreline, this region offers endless opportunities for close-up encounters with the wild. Use the links below to explore top viewing locations and helpful resources for planning your outing.

Wildlife and Birdwatching on The Mendocino Coast

Coastal Wildlife & Birding on the Mendocino Coast

From rugged headlands and tranquil estuaries to towering redwoods and quiet inland valleys, the Mendocino Coast is a sanctuary for some of the most diverse wildlife habitats in the United States. This area offers an incredible range of natural beauty and species variety, making it one of California’s top wildlife destinations.

Whales

Northern California is a prime location for whale watching. Every March, the Fort Bragg and Mendocino Whale Festivals celebrate the migration with special whale-watching charters. These trips are popular with both locals and visitors and are offered throughout the year, by both boat and small aircraft.

Sea Otters

Once on the brink of extinction, sea otters now thrive along the Pacific coast. These playful and charismatic animals are frequently seen floating in the surf, cracking open shells, or grooming their fur.

Harbor Seals

Harbor seals can often be spotted lounging on coastal rocks or swimming just offshore. Known for their relaxed, sun-loving behavior, these seals are commonly seen near both North and South Noyo Harbor, as well as from other accessible beach and bluff viewpoints.

Migratory Birds

The Mendocino Coast sits along the Pacific Flyway, a major migration route for birds. During peak migration seasons, hundreds of thousands of birds stop here to rest and refuel. Species include gulls, osprey, eagles, owls, peregrine falcons, and a wide range of shorebirds and waterfowl. One of the best places to birdwatch is MacKerricher State Park.

Where to Spot Wildlife

The Anchor Lodge – “Where the Harbor Meets the Wild”
MacKerricher State Park
Russian Gulch State Park
Jug Handle State Reserve
Caspar Headlands State Reserve
Caspar Headlands State Beach
Mendocino Headlands State Park
Navarro River Redwoods State Park

Birdwatching on the Mendocino Coast

Birding is the most popular hobby in the world, and Mendocino is one of the best places to enjoy it. With lush landscapes and well-protected habitats, the area provides incredible opportunities to see birds year-round. The Mendocino Coast Audubon Society offers regular walks and educational events, often hosted at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.

Noyo Sunset Bird Paddle

Join Liquid Fusion Kayaking for a peaceful evening paddle through Noyo Harbor and up the river. This relaxed trip offers a chance to observe a wide variety of coastal bird species in the soft light of dusk—a favorite for casual and experienced birders alike.

Birdwatching from The Anchor Lodge

Guests of The Anchor Lodge are steps away from the Ten Mile Coastal Trail, part of MacKerricher State Park. It’s an ideal spot for watching wildlife and taking in panoramic ocean views without leaving your home base.

Additional Birding Resources

Mendocino Coast Audubon Society: https://www.mendocinocoastaudubon.org
National Audubon Society: https://www.audubon.org
California Audubon: https://ca.audubon.org
Peregrine Audubon Society: https://peregrineaudubon.org
American Birding Association: https://www.aba.org
Birding on the Net: http://www.birdingonthe.net
Towhee.net: http://www.towhee.net
Bird Watching Guide – Thanks Alyssa!

Top Birding Spots

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
This oceanfront garden is home to over 100 bird species. The Mendocino Coast Audubon Society regularly hosts Early Bird Walks (3rd Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m.) and Beginning Birding Walks (1st Saturdays at 9 a.m.).
Learn more: https://www.gardenbythesea.org

MacKerricher State Park
A haven for waterfowl and raptors, this park features year-round residents like mallards, great blue herons, and ospreys. It’s also a stopover site for migrating birds.
Park info: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=436

Pudding Creek
Located across from the Pudding Creek Trestle near The Anchor Lodge, this waterway is ideal for birdwatching by kayak or canoe.
For watercraft rentals, call 1-800-331-8884

Big River – Mendocino Headlands State Park
A prime location for spotting wildlife on foot or by boat. Paddle up the river or walk along its banks for a close-up look at nature.
More details: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=481

Want to Explore Further?

Visit area parks throughout the Mendocino Coast for even more opportunities to spot wildlife, hike scenic trails, and experience the unspoiled natural beauty of Northern California.

Wildlife

Wildlife and Birdwatching on the Mendocino Coast