Wetland birding habitat

Colusa National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Colusa National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Semipalmated Plover

Charadrius semipalmatus

4/13/2026Colusa NWR--Abel Rd.1 observed

Lazuli Bunting

Passerina amoena

4/13/2026Lurline Ave.2 observed

Brant

Branta bernicla

4/10/2026Sacramento NWR--Auto Route & Visitor Center1 observed

Hudsonian Whimbrel

Numenius hudsonicus

4/9/2026Gray Lodge WA--Auto Loop (PL15 to PL18)1 observed

California Gull

Larus californicus

4/8/2026Sacramento NWR--Auto Route & Visitor Center6 observed

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Myiarchus cinerascens

4/7/2026Gray Lodge WA--Walking Loop & Parking Lot 14/Headquarters1 observed

Rufous-crowned Sparrow

Aimophila ruficeps

4/4/2026Sand Creek Rd.1 observed

California Thrasher

Toxostoma redivivum

4/4/2026Sand Creek Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

2004/13/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

12004/13/2026

Wood Duck

44/13/2026

Cinnamon Teal

404/13/2026

Northern Shoveler

504/13/2026

Gadwall

304/13/2026

American Wigeon

304/13/2026

Mallard

124/13/2026

Green-winged Teal

44/13/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

24/13/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

54/13/2026

Calliope Hummingbird

24/13/2026

Rufous Hummingbird

74/13/2026

Common Gallinule

24/13/2026

American Coot

124/13/2026

Black-necked Stilt

404/13/2026

American Avocet

34/13/2026

Killdeer

34/13/2026

Hudsonian Whimbrel

204/13/2026

Long-billed Dowitcher

1004/13/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Colusa National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Colusa National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge include Greater White-fronted Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge?
Colusa National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.