You will be surprised at the number of birds that live in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park, which is located along the Arroyo Seco to the north of the centre of Los Angeles. It is called the "kingdom" of birds for a reason. A particularly large number of birds can be seen during the spring migration, at the end of April. However, it may surprise you with its biological diversity also in autumn and winter.
Ernest E. Debs Park is an open viewing platform. On autumn mornings you can meet birds of prey here, among them Swainson Hawks, but in the winter and spring, you can find the White-tailed Kite soaring in the air. In the eucalyptus trees, you can see the vocal Cassin Kingbirds. Winter is the best time to see Yellow-rumped Warblers, Dark-eyed Juncos, goldfinches, and sparrows.
With the arrival of spring and the flowers blooming, some species of hummingbirds circulate above the fragrant meadows. These are such species like Allen's and Black-chinned hummingbirds. As this park is a wooded massif, you will hear the knocking of woodpeckers as well. Other species of birds—Red-breasted Nuthatches and Pine Siskins have been seen in the pine grove in winter. They migrate here from the mountains. There is a large pond in the park. This is the favourite place for the Great Blue Heron or a Great Egret during migrations. Wetland vegetation along the edges of the pond attracts many other species of birds. Especially many birds migrate here from mountainous areas, for example, Winter Wrens and Golden-crowned Kinglets.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Ernest E. Debs Park for birdwatching?
Late April to September-February is the optimal time for birdwatching at Ernest E. Debs Park. The park boasts an abundance of birds during spring migration at the end of April. Throughout autumn and winter, the park has a diverse bird population, with some species primarily visible only during winter such as Yellow-rumped Warblers and Sparrows. Show more
Where can I find the Great Blue Heron and Great Egret in the park?
The Great Blue Heron and Great Egret are present in Ernest E. Debs Park, primarily around the pond during their migratory period. The vegetation in the pond attracts various other bird species like Winter Wrens and Golden-crowned Kinglets. There are numerous bird sightings to be enjoyed throughout the park. Show more
What is the most common species of hummingbirds found in the park?
Ernest E. Debs Park is home to the Allen's and Black-chinned hummingbirds, frequently found in the park's fragrant meadows during spring when the flowers bloom. These two hummingbird species are the most common in the park, which adds to the charm of the nature trail. Show more
Can I spot any birds of prey in the park during autumn?
Birds of prey, such as Swainson Hawk, are sometimes visible in the park during autumn mornings. During winter and spring migrations, a higher number of White-tailed Kites can be spotted soaring above in the park's airspace. While fewer birds of prey are observable in autumn compared to other seasons, they still can be spotted sometimes. Show more
Are there any specific birdwatching tours or activities offered in Ernest E. Debs Park?
Ernest E. Debs Park does not offer specific birdwatching tours or activities. However, there are numerous informative signs within the park for visitors to learn about the various bird species they may observe. Additionally, visitors can get up close to the birds by utilizing the park's open viewing platform and nature trails, making it an excellent opportunity to witness exotic bird species. Show more
