Owens Lake Bird Surveys Document Migratory Habitat Restored Along a Former Dry Lakebed

KEELER, Calif. — The Owens Lake landscape is not only a dust-control site; it has become a significant stopover for migrating birds. LADWP says its shallow-flooding and managed vegetation areas provide habitat for shorebirds, ducks and other wildlife during spring and fall migration.

Who counts the birds?

LADWP describes twice-yearly Owens Lake Big Day bird surveys organized with the Eastern Sierra Audubon Society, government agencies and volunteers. Teams count species and individuals across the dust-control project area and related habitats. These surveys help track ecosystem changes while managers continue to meet dust-emission requirements.

What birds may be seen?

The agency lists snowy plovers, American avocets, black-necked stilts, western sandpipers, peregrine falcons, northern shovelers and various other species. Numbers fluctuate by season, rainfall and migration patterns. A past count does not guarantee a particular species will appear during a visitor’s next trip.

Can visitors join the birds on the lakebed?

No. Designated viewing trails and access limits exist to protect people, wildlife and operational equipment. Disturbing nesting birds or entering flooded dust-treatment areas can interfere with habitat management. Visitors should observe from marked public paths.

Official source: LADWP — Owens Lake Wildlife and Bird Surveys.

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