Scientific Name: Bombycilla cedrorum The Cedar Waxwing, Bombycilla cedrorum, is a sleek and elegant bird species often seen in flocks throughout Huntington Beach, California. With its silky plumage, crested head, and distinctive black mask, the waxwing is a striking sight against the backdrop of trees and shrubs. These migratory birds visit the area during the [...]

Vibrantly colored American Kestrels appear throughout North America year-round, as far south as Mexico in the winter, and throughout Canada in the summer. American Kestrels’ prey typically consists of large insects, along with small reptiles, birds and mammals. Identify the more colorful males by their solid rusty back and contrasting blue-gray wings. Male and female [...]

Scientific Name: Bubo virginianus The Great Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus, is a formidable nocturnal predator that inhabits the woodlands and open habitats of Huntington Beach, California. With its piercing yellow eyes, prominent ear tufts, and mottled brown plumage, the Great Horned Owl is a symbol of silent strength and stealthy hunting prowess. These apex predators [...]

Scientific Name: Calypte anna Anna’s Hummingbird, Calypte anna, is a year-round resident of Huntington Beach, California, known for its vibrant plumage and acrobatic flight. Males display iridescent pink-red throats, or gorgets, which they flash during courtship displays and territorial disputes. Females have greenish-gray plumage with a pale throat. These energetic birds can be found in [...]

Scientific Name: Selasphorus sasin Allen’s Hummingbird, a charming resident of Huntington Beach, California, is a small bird known for its iridescent green plumage and fiery orange-red throat patch, or gorget, in males. During the breeding season from late winter to early spring, males perform dazzling aerial displays to attract mates. Females have more subdued green [...]