California wildlife
Black oystercatcher
Haematopus bachmani
Black Oystercatcher, not American; found on California rocky shores
See the Black oystercatcher up close
Best months
Mar · Apr · May · Jun · Jul · Aug
Best at low tide or early morning; check local tide charts for peak activity.
Where to look
Rocky Pacific intertidal zonePoint Reyes National SeashorePoint Lobos State Natural Reserve
Conservation status
common resident of rocky Pacific coast
Good to know
Is this the same as the Black Oystercatcher?
No, the Black Oystercatcher is a separate species found only along the Pacific coast, while the Black Oystercatcher lives on Atlantic and Gulf shores.
When is the best time to see Black Oystercatchers in California?
Spring and summer (March–August) are ideal for breeding activity and increased visibility along rocky shores.
Make it a trip
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