Friends of Lodi Lake · Field Guide
Seasonal Birding
Guide
Lodi Lake · Pig’s Lake · Nature Area · 200+ Species
A birder’s companion to the resident, migratory, and visiting birds of Lodi Lake Park and its 58-acre Nature Area along the Mokelumne River — one of San Joaquin County’s premier birding destinations with over 200 documented species.
Seasonal Birding Calendar
Plan your visit around peak birding times at Lodi Lake Park and the Nature Area
Spring
Mar – May
Summer
Jun – Aug
Fall
Sep – Nov
Winter
Dec – Feb
- Western Tanager
- Black-headed Grosbeak
- Rufous Hummingbird
- Warbling Vireo
- Swainson’s Thrush
- Lazuli Bunting
- Bullock’s Oriole arrives
- Black-chinned Hummer arrives
- Barn Swallow arrives
- Warbler migration peaks
- Swainson’s Hawk nesting
- Osprey fishing
- Black-chinned Hummer nesting
- Ash-throated Flycatcher
- Bullock’s Oriole nesting
- Barn & Tree Swallows
- Western Bluebird
- Great Horned Owl fledglings
- Acorn Woodpecker active
- Fall migration begins Aug
- Warbler migration
- Rufous Hummingbird returns
- Sandhill Cranes arrive Oct
- Winter sparrows arrive
- Cedar Waxwing flocks
- Yellow-rumped Warbler
- Ruby-crowned Kinglet
- Hermit Thrush arrives
- Sharp-shinned Hawk
- Wood Duck best viewing
- Sandhill Cranes nearby
- Great Horned Owl nesting
- White-crowned Sparrow
- Golden-crowned Sparrow
- Cedar Waxwing flocks
- Red-breasted Sapsucker
- Hermit & Varied Thrush
- Merlin & Peregrine Falcon
- Lake drawdown shorebirds
- Owl calling best time
Year-Round Resident Birds
The backbone of Lodi Lake’s bird community — present and often nesting within the park all year
Wood Duck
Aix sponsa
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; best viewing fall/winter at Pig’s Lake
Identification: Male: Iridescent green and purple head with white chin patch, red eye, chestnut breast with white flecks. Female: Grayish-brown with distinctive white teardrop eye patch. One of the most stunning ducks in North America.
Habitat: Wooded swamps, ponds, and slow-moving rivers with overhanging vegetation; Pig’s Lake is the premier viewing spot
Diet: Seeds, acorns, berries, aquatic plants, insects, and small invertebrates
Feeding Behavior: Dabbles at the water surface and forages on land for acorns and seeds under oaks; also perches in trees to feed on berries
Breeding & Nesting: Nests in tree cavities and nest boxes, often 20–65 feet above ground. Lays 9–14 creamy white eggs. Ducklings leap from nest cavity within 24 hours of hatching. Nest boxes at Pig’s Lake have boosted local populations. Breeds March–June.
Great Blue Heron
Ardea herodias
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; common at lake edges and along Mokelumne River
Identification: Large wading bird (3–4.5 ft tall, 6-ft wingspan). Blue-gray body, black stripe over eye extending to black plumes. Long yellowish bill. Folds neck into S-shape in flight.
Habitat: Lake shorelines, riverbanks, marshes, and shallow waters throughout the park
Diet: Fish, frogs, salamanders, snakes, small mammals, insects
Feeding Behavior: Wades slowly in shallow water or stands motionless waiting to strike prey with dagger-like bill. Also hunts grasslands for gophers and voles.
Breeding & Nesting: Colonial nester; builds large stick nests in tall trees. Lays 2–6 pale blue eggs. Both parents incubate ~28 days. Young fledge at ~60 days. Breeds Feb–Jul.
Green Heron
Butorides virescens
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; best at Pig’s Lake and along Nature Area waterways
Identification: Small, stocky heron (~18 in). Dark green cap, chestnut neck, dark green back with iridescent sheen. Short yellowish legs turn bright orange during breeding.
Habitat: Densely vegetated edges of ponds, streams, and rivers; frequently at Pig’s Lake
Diet: Small fish, frogs, aquatic insects, crayfish, and small invertebrates
Feeding Behavior: One of few tool-using birds: drops insects, feathers, or small objects on water surface to lure fish. Hunts from low perches or crouches at water’s edge.
Breeding & Nesting: Nests in dense trees or shrubs near water. Lays 3–5 pale green eggs. Both parents incubate ~21 days. Young fledge at 16–17 days. Breeds Apr–Jul.
Anna’s Hummingbird
Calypte anna
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; check feeders along Laurel Avenue
Identification: Small hummingbird (3.9–4.3 in). Male: brilliant iridescent rose-pink gorget and crown. Female: green back, gray underparts with small iridescent throat spots.
Habitat: Gardens, oak woodland, riparian areas with nectar sources
Diet: Nectar from flowers, tree sap, small insects and spiders
Feeding Behavior: Hovers at flowers; catches tiny insects in flight. Tongue laps nectar ~13 licks/second. Males perform spectacular dive displays.
Breeding & Nesting: Female builds tiny cup nest of plant down bound with spider silk. Lays 2 white eggs. Incubation 14–19 days by female only. May raise 2–3 broods/year, nesting as early as Dec.
Acorn Woodpecker
Melanerpes formicivorus
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; colony along north side of lake near paved road
Identification: Medium woodpecker (9 in) with striking ‘clown face’: white forehead, black around bill, red cap, white eyes. Loud ‘waka-waka-waka’ calls.
Habitat: Oak woodlands; requires living oaks for acorns and dead trees for granary storage
Diet: Acorns (stored in granary trees), insects caught in flight, sap, fruit
Feeding Behavior: Drills thousands of holes in dead trees (‘granary trees’) and stores individual acorns. Defends communal stores year-round.
Breeding & Nesting: Cooperative breeder; family groups of 3–15 share duties. Multiple females may lay in same cavity (up to 14 eggs). Incubation 11–12 days. Young fledge ~30 days. Breeds Apr–Jul.
Nuttall’s Woodpecker
Dryobates nuttallii
Year-round Resident (California endemic)
When to Look: All year throughout the park
Identification: Small woodpecker (7.5 in). Male: black-and-white barred back, red patch on back of head. Female similar but lacks red. Found only in California and northern Baja.
Habitat: Oak and riparian woodland; California endemic species
Diet: Insects and larvae gleaned from bark, especially beetle larvae; also berries and seeds
Feeding Behavior: Probes and hammers bark on oak trunks, working from lower trunk upward.
Breeding & Nesting: Excavates nest cavity in dead branch or snag. Lays 3–6 white eggs. Both parents incubate ~14 days. Young fledge ~29 days. Breeds Apr–Jun.
Downy Woodpecker
Dryobates pubescens
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; common in Nature Area
Identification: Smallest N. American woodpecker (6.5 in). Black-and-white with white back stripe. Male has small red nape patch. Short, stubby bill.
Habitat: Deciduous and mixed woodlands, riparian areas, willows
Diet: Insects (wood-boring beetle larvae), seeds, berries
Feeding Behavior: Forages on smaller branches and weed stems. Joins mixed-species flocks in winter.
Breeding & Nesting: Excavates nest cavity in dead wood. Lays 4–5 white eggs. Both parents incubate ~12 days. Young fledge at 18–21 days. Breeds Apr–Jun.
Northern Flicker (Red-shafted)
Colaptes auratus
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; north side of lake is best
Identification: Large woodpecker (12–14 in). Brown-barred back, spotted breast with black crescent bib, red mustache (male), salmon-red underwings in flight. Loud ‘wicka-wicka-wicka’ call.
Habitat: Open woodlands, parks, forest edges; often feeds on ground
Diet: Ants and beetles (primary), also fruits, berries, seeds
Feeding Behavior: Unusual for a woodpecker: frequently feeds on ground, probing for ants with barbed tongue (extends 2 in beyond bill).
Breeding & Nesting: Excavates nest cavity in dead tree. Lays 5–8 white eggs. Both parents incubate 11–13 days. Young fledge at 24–27 days. Breeds Apr–Jun.
Belted Kingfisher
Megaceryle alcyon
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year along Mokelumne River and lake
Identification: Medium bird (11–14 in) with shaggy crest, large head, heavy bill. Blue-gray above, white collar and belly. Female has additional rusty breast band (one of few species where female is more colorful). Loud rattling call.
Habitat: Near clear water for diving; perches on branches and wires overlooking water
Diet: Small fish, crayfish, frogs, aquatic insects
Feeding Behavior: Hovers over water then plunges headfirst to catch fish. Beats large prey against perch before swallowing.
Breeding & Nesting: Excavates burrow in earthen bank, 1–8 ft long. Lays 5–8 white eggs. Incubation 23–24 days. Parents teach young to fish by dropping dead prey into water. Breeds Apr–Jul.
Black Phoebe
Sayornis nigricans
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year near water features; very common
Identification: Small flycatcher (6.5 in). Crisp black upperparts and chest with white belly – tuxedo-like. Constantly bobs and fans tail. Sharp ‘pi-tsee’ call.
Habitat: Near water; low perches on branches, fences, rocks near streams and lakeshores
Diet: Flying insects: flies, beetles, bees, wasps, dragonflies; occasional small fish
Feeding Behavior: Sally-style flycatcher; darts from perch to catch insects in flight. Tail pumps constantly when perched.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds mud-and-grass nest under eaves, bridges, or rock overhangs near water. Lays 3–6 white eggs. Incubation 15–17 days. May raise 2–3 broods/year. Breeds Mar–Jul.
California Scrub-Jay
Aphelocoma californica
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; bold and conspicuous
Identification: Large, crestless jay (11–12 in). Bright blue head, wings, and tail; gray-brown back; white throat with blue necklace. Very intelligent and curious.
Habitat: Oak woodlands, suburban areas, parks
Diet: Omnivorous: acorns, seeds, nuts, berries, insects, bird eggs, nestlings
Feeding Behavior: Caches thousands of acorns (important for oak regeneration). Highly intelligent; remembers cache locations and re-caches when observed.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds cup nest of twigs in dense shrubs or trees. Lays 3–6 green-blue eggs. Incubation 15–17 days by female. Young fledge at 18 days. Breeds Mar–Jun.
Oak Titmouse
Baeolophus inornatus
Year-round Resident (CA near-endemic)
When to Look: All year; California specialty species
Identification: Small, plain bird (5.75 in) with short crest. Uniformly gray-brown. Only small crested gray bird in its range. Clear ‘peter-peter-peter’ song.
Habitat: Oak woodlands; closely associated with oaks
Diet: Insects, spiders, seeds, acorns, berries
Feeding Behavior: Active forager; gleans insects from bark and leaves. Hangs upside-down from branches. Stores seeds in bark crevices.
Breeding & Nesting: Cavity nester; uses tree holes, woodpecker cavities, or nest boxes. Lays 3–9 white eggs. Incubation 14–16 days. Pairs maintain year-round territories. Breeds Mar–May.
White-breasted Nuthatch
Sitta carolinensis
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; Nature Area oaks
Identification: Small, compact bird (5.5 in). Blue-gray above, white face and underparts, black cap (gray in female). Nasal ‘yank-yank-yank’ call.
Habitat: Oak and mixed woodland; prefers mature trees with rough bark
Diet: Insects, seeds, nuts; fond of sunflower seeds at feeders
Feeding Behavior: Walks head-first down tree trunks (unique among birds), probing bark crevices. Caches seeds by wedging them into bark.
Breeding & Nesting: Cavity nester; sometimes sweeps crushed insects around entrance (may deter squirrels). Lays 5–9 white eggs with reddish-brown spots. Incubation 13–14 days. Breeds Mar–Jun.
Spotted Towhee
Pipilo maculatus
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; common in Nature Area undergrowth
Identification: Large sparrow (7–8.5 in). Male: black hood, back, wings, tail; rufous sides; white belly; white wing spots. Female: dark brown replaces black. Red eye.
Habitat: Dense brush and leaf litter under trees; thickets, blackberry brambles
Diet: Insects, seeds, berries found in leaf litter
Feeding Behavior: Characteristic double-scratch: hops forward and rakes both feet backward to uncover hidden prey. Often heard scratching before seen.
Breeding & Nesting: Nests on or near ground in dense vegetation. Lays 3–5 creamy white eggs with brown spots. Incubation 12–14 days. Young fledge at 10–12 days. Breeds Apr–Jul.
Yellow-billed Magpie
Pica nuttalli
Year-round Resident (CA endemic – declining)
When to Look: All year; found in oak groves in and around Lodi
Identification: Large, striking corvid (17–18 in) with very long tail. Black-and-white with iridescent blue-green sheen. Yellow bill and yellow skin around eye. Found ONLY in California’s Central Valley. Indicator species for habitat health.
Habitat: Open oak savanna and agricultural areas; Central Valley endemic
Diet: Omnivorous: acorns, insects, carrion, small animals, eggs, fruit
Feeding Behavior: Forages on ground in open areas, often in flocks. Caches food. Picks parasites from livestock.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds large domed stick nest high in trees, often in loose colonies. Lays 5–8 olive-green eggs. Incubation ~18 days. Young fledge ~30 days. Declined due to West Nile virus. Breeds Mar–Jun.
Summer Breeding Birds
Arriving in spring to nest and raise young, departing by September for Central and South America
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Archilochus alexandri
Summer Breeder (Mar–Sep)
When to Look: Spring–Summer; arrives at Lodi Lake in spring
Identification: Small hummingbird (3.5 in). Male: black chin with thin iridescent purple band at bottom (visible only in certain light). Female: lighter and slimmer than Anna’s.
Habitat: Riparian areas, orchards, gardens with flowering plants
Diet: Nectar from flowers and feeders; small insects and spiders
Feeding Behavior: Hovers at flowers; catches tiny insects by hawking. Males perform J-shaped dive displays.
Breeding & Nesting: Female builds tiny cup nest of plant down and spider silk. Lays 2 white eggs. Incubation 13–16 days by female only. May raise 2–3 broods. Breeds Apr–Aug.
Ash-throated Flycatcher
Myiarchus cinerascens
Summer Breeder (Apr–Sep)
When to Look: Spring–Summer in oak woodland and Nature Area
Identification: Medium flycatcher (8.5 in). Gray-brown above, pale gray throat/breast, pale yellow belly, rufous tail. Two whitish wing bars. Whistled ‘ka-brick’ call.
Habitat: Oak and riparian woodlands with cavities for nesting
Diet: Insects (beetles, grasshoppers, wasps), also berries and small fruits
Feeding Behavior: Sally-strikes from perch. Less aerial than other flycatchers; picks many insects from bark and leaves.
Breeding & Nesting: Cavity nester; frequently includes shed snakeskin in nest (may deter predators). Lays 4–5 creamy eggs. Incubation ~15 days. Young fledge ~16 days. Breeds May–Jul.
Bullock’s Oriole
Icterus bullockii
Summer Breeder (Apr–Aug)
When to Look: Spring–Summer; nests in cottonwoods and willows
Identification: Medium songbird (7–8 in). Male: brilliant orange with black crown, eye line, throat, back; large white wing patch. Female: olive-yellow. Rich, fluty song.
Habitat: Tall deciduous trees, especially cottonwoods and willows in riparian areas
Diet: Insects (caterpillars, beetles), nectar, ripe fruit, berries
Feeding Behavior: Gleans caterpillars from canopy. Probes flowers for nectar. Visits hummingbird feeders and fruit offerings.
Breeding & Nesting: Female weaves elaborate hanging pouch nest from plant fibers, suspended from outer branch tips. Lays 4–5 pale grayish eggs. Incubation 11 days. Young fledge ~14 days. Breeds May–Jul.
Barn Swallow
Hirundo rustica
Summer Breeder (Mar–Sep)
When to Look: Spring–Summer; nests under park structures
Identification: Slender swallow (6.7 in) with deeply forked tail. Steel-blue above, cinnamon-buff below with dark rusty throat. Most widespread swallow species in the world.
Habitat: Open areas near water; nests on human structures
Diet: Flying insects: flies, beetles, moths, grasshoppers, dragonflies
Feeding Behavior: Catches insects in sustained aerial pursuit, often flying low over water. Drinks while flying by skimming surface.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds cup nest of mud pellets and grass under eaves/bridges. Lays 4–5 white eggs with brown spots. Incubation 13–17 days. Often raises 2 broods. Breeds Apr–Aug.
Winter Visitors
Arriving from higher elevations and northern latitudes when the lake drawdown creates rich habitat
Cedar Waxwing
Bombycilla cedrorum
Winter Visitor (Oct–May)
When to Look: Fall–Winter; arrives in flocks throughout park
Identification: Sleek, crested bird (6–7 in). Warm brown with black mask edged white, yellow tail tip, waxy red tips on secondaries. High-pitched ‘sree’ call.
Habitat: Fruiting trees and berry-producing shrubs
Diet: Primarily fruit and berries; supplements with insects during breeding
Feeding Behavior: Feeds in social flocks that strip trees of berries. Known for passing berries beak-to-beak. May become intoxicated on fermented berries.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests Jun–Aug in northern US/Canada.
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Corthylio calendula
Winter Visitor (Oct–Apr)
When to Look: Fall–Winter; active in Nature Area canopy
Identification: Tiny bird (3.5–4.5 in). Olive-green above, pale below with bold white eye ring. Male has hidden ruby-red crown patch. Surprisingly loud song.
Habitat: Woodlands, thickets; often in mixed-species flocks
Diet: Insects, spiders, and their eggs; some berries in winter
Feeding Behavior: Extremely active; constantly flicks wings while foraging. Hovers at branch tips.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests in high-elevation coniferous forests.
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Setophaga coronata
Winter Visitor (Sep–May)
When to Look: Fall–Winter; one of the most common winter birds
Identification: Medium warbler (5–6 in). Audubon’s form: brownish-gray with yellow rump patch, yellow on sides and throat. Breeding male much brighter. ‘Butter-butt’ nickname.
Habitat: Woodlands, brushy areas; very adaptable
Diet: Insects and spiders; uniquely able to digest waxy berries that other warblers cannot
Feeding Behavior: Gleans, sallies, hovers. Winter flocks feed heavily on berries.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests at higher elevations/latitudes.
White-crowned Sparrow
Zonotrichia leucophrys
Winter Visitor (Oct–Apr)
When to Look: Fall–Winter; common in brushy areas
Identification: Large sparrow (6–7 in). Bold black-and-white striped crown. Pink or orange bill. Gray breast. Sweet, whistled song.
Habitat: Weedy fields, brush piles, hedgerows, park edges
Diet: Seeds, grains, buds, fruits, insects
Feeding Behavior: Forages on ground, scratching in leaf litter. Forms loose winter flocks, often with Golden-crowned Sparrows.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests in Alaska, Canada, western mountains.
Hermit Thrush
Catharus guttatus
Winter Visitor (Oct–Apr)
When to Look: Fall–Winter; secretive in Nature Area undergrowth
Identification: Medium thrush (6–7 in). Brown above with contrasting reddish-brown tail. Spotted breast. Called ‘the American Nightingale’ for its fluty song.
Habitat: Dense undergrowth, leaf litter, shaded woodland floor
Diet: Insects, spiders, earthworms, snails, berries
Feeding Behavior: Forages on ground flipping leaves. Diagnostic: raises and slowly lowers tail.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests in northern/mountain coniferous forests.
Migrants & Waterbirds
Passage migrants along the Pacific Flyway and waterbirds of the lake, river, and Pig’s Lake
Western Tanager
Piranga ludoviciana
Spring/Fall Migrant (Apr–May, Aug–Oct)
When to Look: Migration; spectacular in spring among the oaks
Identification: Medium songbird (6.3–7.5 in). Breeding male: brilliant yellow body, red-orange head, black back/wings/tail. Female: olive-yellow. Gets red pigment from insects (rhodoxanthin).
Habitat: Tree canopy in oak and riparian woodland
Diet: Insects (wasps, bees, beetles, caterpillars), fruit, berries
Feeding Behavior: Gleans from canopy; hover-picks from leaves. Surprisingly hard to spot high in leafy canopy.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests in coniferous/mixed forests at higher elevations.
Black-headed Grosbeak
Pheucticus melanocephalus
Migrant/Summer Breeder (Apr–Sep)
When to Look: Spring–Summer; rich song in Nature Area canopy
Identification: Stocky songbird (7–8.5 in) with massive conical bill. Male: black head, orange-cinnamon breast, white wing patches. Female: brown above, buffy below with streaks. Rich, robin-like song.
Habitat: Deciduous and mixed woodlands, riparian forest
Diet: Seeds, berries, insects (including toxic monarch butterflies), spiders
Feeding Behavior: Forages in canopy and understory. One of few birds able to eat monarch butterflies.
Breeding & Nesting: Both parents build nest and share incubation (both sing from nest!). Lays 2–5 bluish-green eggs. Incubation 12–14 days. Young fledge at 11–12 days. Breeds May–Jul.
Rufous Hummingbird
Selasphorus rufus
Migrant (Mar–Apr, Jul–Sep)
When to Look: Brief spring/fall passage; aggressive at feeders
Identification: Small hummingbird (3–3.75 in). Male: overall rufous with iridescent red-orange gorget. Female: green above, rufous on flanks. Among longest-distance migrants relative to body size.
Habitat: Gardens, parks, forest edges with nectar sources
Diet: Nectar from tubular flowers; tiny insects and spiders
Feeding Behavior: Highly aggressive; dominates feeders, chasing even larger hummingbirds. Nearly 4,000-mile migration.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests in Pacific Northwest and Alaska.
Sandhill Crane
Antigone canadensis
Winter Visitor to Lodi region (Oct–Mar)
When to Look: Winter; spectacular at nearby Woodbridge Ecological Reserve
Identification: Very large bird (3.5–4.5 ft tall, 6–7 ft wingspan). Gray body, long neck/legs, bare red crown patch. Bugling call carries over a mile. Up to 10,000 winter in Lodi area.
Habitat: Agricultural fields and wetlands; uses open fields for feeding and shallow wetlands for roosting
Diet: Grains, tubers, berries, insects, frogs, small mammals
Feeding Behavior: Probes soil and picks from ground in agricultural fields. Flies in V-formations to/from roost sites.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Mates for life; elaborate dancing displays. Nests in isolated wetlands.
Great Egret
Ardea alba
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year at lake, river, and Pig’s Lake
Identification: Large, elegant all-white wading bird (38–39 in). Yellow bill, black legs. Develops filamentous plumes in breeding season.
Habitat: Shallow waters, lake edges, river margins
Diet: Fish, frogs, small mammals, crayfish, insects
Feeding Behavior: Wades slowly or stands motionless, striking with lightning speed.
Breeding & Nesting: Colonial nester. Lays 3–5 pale blue eggs. Both parents incubate 23–26 days. Breeding plumes (aigrettes) nearly caused extinction for hat trade in 1800s, sparking conservation movement.
Pied-billed Grebe
Podilymbus podiceps
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year on Lodi Lake when filled (Apr–Sep)
Identification: Small, chunky grebe (12–15 in). Brown overall; breeding adults have black throat and distinctive black bill band. Rarely flies; ‘hell-diver’ nickname.
Habitat: Open water with emergent vegetation
Diet: Small fish, crayfish, aquatic insects, snails
Feeding Behavior: Dives from surface. Can regulate buoyancy to slowly sink without diving. Eats feathers to protect digestive tract.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds floating nest anchored to plants. Lays 4–8 bluish-white eggs. Striped chicks ride on parent’s back. Breeds Apr–Sep.
Double-crested Cormorant
Nannopterum auritum
Winter Visitor
When to Look: Fall–Winter; perches on lake structures and dead trees
Identification: Large waterbird (30–35 in). Black overall with orange-yellow facial skin. Characteristic wing-spreading pose.
Habitat: Open water of Lodi Lake and Mokelumne River
Diet: Fish, crayfish, amphibians
Feeding Behavior: Dives from surface to pursue fish underwater. Spreads wings to dry (lacks waterproofing oils).
Breeding & Nesting: Does not typically breed at Lodi Lake. Colonial nester on islands or cliffs.
Raptors & Owls
The hunters of Lodi Lake — from powerful Great Horned Owls to swift Peregrine Falcons
Cooper’s Hawk
Accipiter cooperii
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; increased numbers in winter
Identification: Medium-sized hawk (14–20 in) with rounded wings and very long tail. Adults: blue-gray back, rusty-barred breast, red eyes. Immatures: brown above, streaked below. Rounded tail tip distinguishes from Sharp-shinned Hawk.
Habitat: Mature woodland and forest edges; hunts in both open and dense vegetation throughout the park
Diet: Medium-sized birds (jays, robins, doves); also chipmunks, squirrels, small mammals
Feeding Behavior: Agile pursuit predator; flies rapidly through dense woodland to surprise prey. Uses cover and ambush tactics. Will stake out bird feeders where prey concentrates.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds stick nest in dense canopy, 25–50 ft up. Lays 3–5 bluish-white eggs. Incubation 30–36 days primarily by female. Young fledge at 27–34 days. Breeds Apr–Jun.
Red-shouldered Hawk
Buteo lineatus
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; vocal during breeding season (Feb–May)
Identification: Medium buteo (17–24 in). Reddish-brown shoulders and breast, banded black-and-white tail, translucent crescent-shaped wing patches visible in flight. Loud, repeated ‘kee-aah’ call is one of the most commonly heard raptor sounds at Lodi Lake.
Habitat: Riparian woodland, oak groves, and forest edges near water; prefers tall mature trees for nesting
Diet: Small mammals, lizards, snakes, frogs, crayfish, and occasionally small birds
Feeding Behavior: Perch-hunts from trees; drops down on prey from above. Also soars and hunts along woodland edges. Often hunts near water for amphibians.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds or refurbishes stick nest in tall trees near water. Lays 3–4 bluish-white eggs with brown markings. Incubation ~33 days. Young fledge at 39–45 days. Pairs reuse nest sites year after year. Breeds Feb–Jun.
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis
Year-round Resident (park periphery)
When to Look: All year; soars over open fields adjacent to park
Identification: Large, broad-winged buteo (18–26 in, 4 ft wingspan). Highly variable plumage; adults typically have rich brown above, pale below with dark belly band, and diagnostic brick-red tail. Immatures have banded brown tail. Raspy, descending ‘keeee-arrr’ scream.
Habitat: Open country with scattered perches — agricultural fields, grasslands, and woodland edges near the park
Diet: Rodents (voles, gophers, ground squirrels), rabbits, snakes, and occasional birds
Feeding Behavior: Soars on thermals scanning the ground below, or perch-hunts from utility poles, fence posts, and tall trees. Drops onto prey in a controlled dive. The most frequently seen raptor in North America.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds large stick nest in tall trees, cliff ledges, or man-made structures. Lays 2–3 white eggs with brown blotches. Incubation 28–35 days mostly by female. Young fledge at 42–46 days. Pairs often mate for life. Breeds Feb–Jun.
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatus
Winter Visitor (Sep–Apr)
When to Look: Fall–Winter; hunts small birds in woodland edges
Identification: Smallest North American accipiter (9–13 in). Very similar to Cooper’s Hawk but smaller, with squared tail tip and proportionally smaller head. Adults: blue-gray above, rusty-barred below, red-orange eyes. Immatures: brown with streaks.
Habitat: Dense woodland and forest edges; often lurks near bird feeders where small birds concentrate
Diet: Primarily small songbirds (sparrows, warblers, finches); occasionally small mammals and large insects
Feeding Behavior: Stealthy ambush predator; uses dense cover and hedgerows to approach unsuspecting prey. Flies rapidly with quick wingbeats and short glides. Will stake out bird feeders for easy pickings.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests in dense coniferous forests at higher elevations or northern latitudes. Builds stick nest in dense canopy. Lays 4–5 bluish-white eggs with brown spots.
White-tailed Kite
Elanus leucurus
Year-round in region; winter visitor to park periphery
When to Look: Fall–Winter; seen hovering over adjacent open fields, especially at dawn and dusk
Identification: Elegant medium raptor (13–15 in) with pointed wings. Pale gray above, white below, with bold black shoulder patches. In flight, wings held in shallow V-shape. Ruby-red eyes. Distinctive hovering flight makes it one of the easiest raptors to identify.
Habitat: Open grasslands, agricultural fields, and savanna near the park; requires scattered trees for nesting and perching
Diet: Primarily voles and other small rodents; occasionally small birds, lizards, and insects
Feeding Behavior: Distinctive hunting style: hovers in place (‘kites’) 30–80 feet above ground with wings held high, scanning for prey movement below. Drops feet-first to capture prey. Most active at dawn and dusk. Communal winter roosts can number dozens of birds.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds platform nest in treetops, often in oaks or willows. Lays 3–5 white eggs heavily marked with brown. Incubation ~30 days by both parents. Young fledge at 35–40 days. May breed year-round when prey abundant. Breeds Feb–Oct.
Swainson’s Hawk
Buteo swainsoni
Summer Breeder (Mar–Sep)
When to Look: Spring–Summer; nests near Lodi in agricultural areas
Identification: Medium-large buteo (19–22 in) with long, pointed wings. Light morph: dark flight feathers contrasting with pale wing linings (distinctive in flight), dark breast bib, white belly. Dark morph uniformly dark. One of the longest-distance migrant raptors — travels to Argentina.
Habitat: Open agricultural land and grasslands with scattered trees for nesting; often seen soaring over fields near the park
Diet: During breeding: rodents, rabbits, and snakes. During migration and winter: primarily grasshoppers and dragonflies
Feeding Behavior: Perch-hunts and soars over agricultural fields. Often follows farming equipment to catch exposed prey. Gregarious on migration, forming large kettles. Remarkable diet shift from vertebrates (breeding) to insects (non-breeding).
Breeding & Nesting: Builds stick nest in isolated trees along field edges, often cottonwoods or willows. Lays 2–3 white eggs with brown spots. Incubation 34–35 days. Young fledge at 38–46 days. California Species of Special Concern. Breeds Apr–Jul.
Osprey
Pandion haliaetus
Summer Visitor (Mar–Sep)
When to Look: Spring through early fall along the Mokelumne River and over Lodi Lake
Identification: Large raptor (21–24 in, 4.5–6 ft wingspan). Dark brown above, white below with dark eye stripe. In flight, wings held in distinctive M-shape with a crook at the wrist. Unique among raptors for its fish-specialized reversible toe.
Habitat: Near rivers and lakes with adequate fish populations; perches on tall dead trees and power poles overlooking water
Diet: Almost exclusively fish (99% of diet); occasionally takes small mammals, birds, or reptiles
Feeding Behavior: Spectacular fish-hunter; hovers over water then plunges feet-first from heights of 30–100 feet, often submerging completely. Reversible outer toe and spiny foot pads grip slippery fish. Carries fish headfirst for aerodynamics. Success rate approximately 25–70%.
Breeding & Nesting: Builds large stick nest on elevated platforms, snags, or man-made structures. Lays 2–4 cream eggs with brown blotches. Incubation 36–42 days primarily by female. Young fledge at 50–55 days. Breeds Apr–Aug.
Merlin
Falco columbarius
Winter Visitor (Oct–Apr)
When to Look: Fall–Winter; hunts over open areas and park edges
Identification: Small, stocky falcon (10–13 in). Male: blue-gray above, streaked rusty below. Female/immature: brown above, heavily streaked below. No bold facial markings like Peregrine — instead has faint mustache mark. Compact and powerful with rapid wingbeats.
Habitat: Open areas, park edges, and agricultural fields; uses trees and poles as hunting perches
Diet: Primarily small birds (sparrows, waxwings, swallows); also dragonflies and other large insects
Feeding Behavior: Fast, powerful pursuit predator. Attacks with rapid, low-level flight, using bursts of speed to overtake prey in the air. Often hunts from a perch, launching in sudden attack. May also hunt cooperatively in pairs.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests in boreal forests and grasslands of northern North America. Uses old crow or magpie nests. Lays 4–6 rusty-brown eggs.
Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus
Winter Visitor (Oct–Apr)
When to Look: Fall–Winter; occasionally seen over lake and open areas
Identification: Medium-large falcon (15–20 in, 3.5 ft wingspan). Adults: dark blue-gray above, barred below, with distinctive black ‘helmet’ and bold dark mustache mark on white face. Long, pointed wings and medium-length tail. Powerful, athletic flight.
Habitat: Open areas near water or tall structures; hunts over wetlands, lakeshores, and agricultural fields
Diet: Medium-sized birds (pigeons, doves, shorebirds, ducks, songbirds)
Feeding Behavior: The fastest animal on earth, reaching over 200 mph in its hunting stoop (high-speed dive). Spots prey from great height, then folds wings and plunges in a near-vertical dive, striking prey with clenched talons. The impact alone often kills or stuns prey mid-air.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests on cliff ledges and tall buildings. Lays 3–4 reddish-brown eggs. Once nearly extinct from DDT; one of conservation’s greatest recovery stories.
American Kestrel
Falco sparverius
Year-round in region (park periphery)
When to Look: All year; perches on wires and poles near open areas adjacent to the park
Identification: Smallest North American falcon (9–12 in). Colorful: rusty back and tail, blue-gray wings (male), two bold black facial stripes on white face. Female: rusty wings with dark barring. Often bobs tail when perched. High-pitched ‘killy-killy-killy’ call.
Habitat: Open country — agricultural fields, grasslands, roadsides, and park edges with utility wires for perching
Diet: Grasshoppers and other large insects (summer); small mammals, particularly voles (winter); also lizards and small birds
Feeding Behavior: Hunts from elevated perches (utility wires, fence posts) or hovers on rapidly beating wings before dropping onto prey. Head-bobs to judge distance before pouncing. Caches surplus food for later consumption.
Breeding & Nesting: Cavity nester; uses old woodpecker holes, natural cavities, and nest boxes. Lays 4–5 white to pinkish eggs with brown spots. Incubation 29–31 days mostly by female. Young fledge at about 30 days. Breeds Apr–Jul. Populations declining across N. America.
Great Horned Owl
Bubo virginianus
Year-round Resident
When to Look: All year; listen for hooting at dawn/dusk in the Nature Area. Nesting begins January.
Identification: Large, powerful owl (18–25 in, 3.5–5 ft wingspan) with prominent ear tufts (‘horns’), large yellow eyes, and barrel-shaped body. Mottled gray-brown plumage provides superb camouflage. Deep resonant hooting: ‘hoo-hoo-hoo hoo hoo.’ Top predator of the night forest.
Habitat: Mature trees in riparian woodland; nests in large tree cavities, abandoned hawk nests, or broken-top snags throughout the park
Diet: Highly varied: rabbits, skunks, rats, mice, squirrels, other birds (including other raptors and owls), snakes, and large insects
Feeding Behavior: Powerful nocturnal predator; hunts from perches or in low, silent flight over open areas. Excellent night vision and asymmetrical ears for precise 3D sound location. Talons exert 300+ PSI of crushing force — among the strongest grip of any raptor.
Breeding & Nesting: One of the earliest nesting birds in the region, often beginning in January–February. Does not build its own nest; takes over old hawk, crow, or heron nests. Lays 1–4 white eggs. Incubation 30–37 days, mostly by female while male hunts. Young leave nest at 6–7 weeks but remain dependent for several months. Pairs often mate for life.
Western Screech-Owl
Megascops kennicottii
Year-round Resident (nocturnal)
When to Look: All year; listen at dusk in mature oaks of Nature Area, especially Feb–May during breeding
Identification: Small owl (7.5–10 in) with ear tufts and yellow eyes. Gray or brown mottled plumage provides superb bark camouflage. Song: a distinctive series of accelerating hollow hoots like a bouncing ball. Strictly nocturnal — much more often heard than seen.
Habitat: Oak woodlands, riparian forests, and suburban areas with large trees and cavities; found throughout the Nature Area
Diet: Large insects (moths, beetles, crickets), small mammals (mice, voles), small birds, and earthworms
Feeding Behavior: Nocturnal and crepuscular hunter; hunts from low perches, dropping silently onto prey on the ground or snatching insects from foliage. Catches moths attracted to lights. Diet shifts seasonally: more insects in warm months, more mammals in winter.
Breeding & Nesting: Cavity nester; uses natural tree holes, old woodpecker cavities, and nest boxes. Does not add nesting material. Lays 3–5 white eggs. Incubation ~26 days by female while male brings food. Young fledge at ~28 days. Monogamous; pairs may stay together for years. Breeds Mar–Jun.
Barn Owl
Tyto alba
Year-round in region (nocturnal)
When to Look: All year; most often detected at dusk/night near open areas adjacent to park
Identification: Medium owl (12.5–15.5 in). Distinctive heart-shaped white facial disc, dark eyes, golden-buff upperparts with fine gray and white spots, pure white underparts. Long legs. Does not hoot; gives eerie, raspy shrieking scream. Ghostly white appearance in flight earned the nickname ‘ghost owl.’
Habitat: Open agricultural fields, grasslands, and marsh edges near the Lodi area; nests in barns, tree cavities, and nest boxes
Diet: Almost exclusively small rodents, especially voles and mice; occasionally shrews, small rats, and birds
Feeding Behavior: Silent nocturnal hunter; flies low over open areas using exceptional hearing to locate prey. Heart-shaped facial disc funnels sound to asymmetrically placed ears, allowing precise 3D location of prey in total darkness. Softest feather edges of any bird eliminate flight noise.
Breeding & Nesting: Nests in cavities in barns, buildings, tree hollows, and nest boxes. Lays 5–11 white eggs. Eggs laid every 2–3 days; incubation begins with first egg, creating staggered hatching. Incubation ~32 days by female while male hunts. Young fledge at 55–65 days. May breed year-round if food plentiful.
Long-eared Owl
Asio otus
Rare Winter Visitor / Passage Migrant
When to Look: Rare; primarily winter (Nov–Mar). One of the rarest birds found at Lodi Lake Park.
Identification: Medium owl (13–16 in) with long, close-set ear tufts (longer and more central than Great Horned Owl’s). Orange-buff facial disc, orange eyes, heavily streaked breast. Extremely cryptic — stretches tall and thin against tree trunk when alarmed, becoming nearly invisible. One of the most rarely encountered owls at Lodi Lake.
Habitat: Dense thickets and willow groves for daytime roosting; hunts over adjacent open fields and grasslands at night
Diet: Almost exclusively small mammals — voles, mice, pocket gophers, and shrews
Feeding Behavior: Strictly nocturnal; hunts by flying low over open ground using acute hearing to detect prey beneath vegetation. Asymmetrical ear placement allows precise vertical and horizontal sound location. Sometimes hunts from low perches.
Breeding & Nesting: Does not breed locally. Nests in dense coniferous or mixed forests, using old stick nests of crows, magpies, or hawks. Lays 4–6 white eggs. Highly secretive during breeding. Winter roosts can be communal, with multiple owls sharing a dense thicket.