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

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

5/23/2026Colusa NWR1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

15/24/2026

Cinnamon Teal

25/24/2026

Northern Shoveler

15/24/2026

Mallard

305/24/2026

Northern Pintail

45/24/2026

Wild Turkey

55/24/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

35/24/2026

Mourning Dove

15/24/2026

Common Gallinule

15/24/2026

American Coot

65/24/2026

Killdeer

45/24/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

25/24/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

25/24/2026

White-faced Ibis

605/24/2026

American Bittern

15/24/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

15/24/2026

Snowy Egret

55/24/2026

Great Egret

65/24/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/24/2026

American White Pelican

165/24/2026

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.