Stretching along the southern shore of the Salton Sea, the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is one of Southern California’s most surprising and important wildlife destinations. What looks like a stark desert landscape at first glance quickly reveals itself as a vital oasis for birds, mammals, and migrating wildlife traveling the Pacific Flyway.
A Refuge Born from Agriculture and Conservation
The refuge was established in 1930, originally to provide habitat for migratory birds drawn to agricultural runoff in the Imperial Valley. In 1998, it was renamed in honor of Sonny Bono, the late congressman and entertainer who played a key role in expanding and protecting public lands in California.
Today, the refuge spans more than 37,000 acres of managed wetlands, desert scrub, and agricultural fields. These habitats work together to support wildlife in a region where natural water sources are scarce.
A Birding Hotspot of International Importance
If you love birds, this place is legendary. More than 400 bird species have been recorded here, making it one of the most significant birding locations in the western United States.
Depending on the season, visitors may spot:
- Snow geese and Ross’s geese by the thousands
- White-faced ibis and long-legged shorebirds
- Burrowing owls tucked into desert edges
- Raptors like northern harriers and peregrine falcons
Winter is especially spectacular, when migratory birds arrive in massive numbers and transform the refuge into a living, moving landscape.
Exploring the Refuge
The refuge is very visitor-friendly, with options for both casual sightseeing and serious wildlife observation.
Highlights include:
- Auto tour routes that loop through wetlands and fields
- Walking trails for quiet wildlife viewing
- Photography pullouts perfect for sunrise and sunset light
The flat terrain and open skies make it an ideal spot for photography, especially when the mountains reflect off the water or flocks of birds fill the horizon.
Why This Refuge Matters
Despite ongoing environmental challenges facing the Salton Sea, the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge remains a critical lifeline for wildlife. Carefully managed water flows and habitat restoration efforts help sustain species that depend on this stopover during long migrations.
The refuge is also a powerful reminder that even altered landscapes can become essential ecosystems when conservation and stewardship come together.
Planning Your Visit
The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is located near Niland, California, and is open year-round during daylight hours. Cooler months—from late fall through early spring—offer the most comfortable weather and the highest concentration of wildlife.
Whether you’re a birder, photographer, or simply curious about one of California’s most unusual natural areas, the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge is a place that challenges expectations and rewards patience.
Bird Checklist: Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge
The refuge supports hundreds of bird species throughout the year. This checklist highlights commonly seen and notable birds, especially during peak migration and winter months.
Waterfowl
- Snow Goose
- Ross’s Goose
- Canada Goose
- Northern Pintail
- American Wigeon
- Green-winged Teal
- Cinnamon Teal
- Northern Shoveler
- Ruddy Duck
Shorebirds
- American Avocet
- Black-necked Stilt
- Long-billed Dowitcher
- Marbled Godwit
- Willet
- Western Sandpiper
- Least Sandpiper
- Killdeer
Wading Birds
- Great Blue Heron
- Great Egret
- Snowy Egret
- Cattle Egret
- White-faced Ibis
Gulls & Terns
- Ring-billed Gull
- California Gull
- Laughing Gull
- Caspian Tern
- Forster’s Tern
Raptors
- Northern Harrier
- Red-tailed Hawk
- Swainson’s Hawk
- American Kestrel
- Peregrine Falcon
- Bald Eagle (occasional but increasing)
Owls
- Burrowing Owl
- Great Horned Owl
Desert & Upland Birds
- Gambel’s Quail
- Loggerhead Shrike
- Greater Roadrunner
- Horned Lark
Songbirds & Others
- Yellow-headed Blackbird
- Red-winged Blackbird
- Marsh Wren
- Savannah Sparrow
- Say’s Phoebe
Birding tip: Winter mornings offer the best light and bird activity. Bring binoculars even if you’re just driving the auto loop—you’ll be surprised how close the birds can be.
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