Coastal Bird Survey — Malibu Lagoon
📍 Malibu Lagoon State Beach, 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
34.035700° N -118.677700° W Get directions ↗
About this task
Conduct a structured bird species count at Malibu Lagoon to contribute to long-term coastal wildlife monitoring data. Training and data sheets provided.
Malibu Lagoon is one of the most important stopover sites for migratory birds on the Southern California coast. Consistent, reliable count data collected by volunteers like you is what allows conservationists to detect population changes before they become crises.
How to complete
- Meet the survey leader at the PCH car park entrance at 7 AM sharp (birds are most active at dawn).
- Attend the 20-minute species ID briefing — binoculars available to borrow if needed.
- Walk the three designated survey transects, recording species, count, and behaviour on your data sheet.
- Do not leave the marked transect paths — the lagoon habitat is fragile.
- Complete all three transects before 10 AM.
- Return data sheets to the survey leader for review before leaving.
- Photograph your completed data sheet for your own records before handing it in.
What to bring
- Binoculars (loaners available but limited)
- Warm layers — it is cold at the lagoon at 7 AM even in summer
- Water and a snack
- Notebook and pencil
How to submit
Once you've completed this task, email your submission to [email protected] . Email your data sheet photo along with any notable sightings or anomalies noted during the survey. The survey leader will submit the master sheet but we keep volunteer records on file.
Notes
This survey runs on the first Sunday of each month. Data contributed here feeds into regional Audubon Society reporting. Previous survey experience is helpful but the briefing covers everything you need.