Forest birding habitat

Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access)

California · Southwest

Habitat
ForestRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access) is a productive birding destination in California, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This forest and river/riparian habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Wood Duck 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

American Pipit

Anthus rubescens

5/29/2026Cosumnes River Preserve1 observed

Dark-eyed Junco

Junco hyemalis

5/29/2026Cosumnes River Preserve1 observed

Least Bittern

Botaurus exilis

5/26/2026Rancho Seco Reservoir Park1 observed

Hooded Merganser

Lophodytes cucullatus

5/18/2026Sacramento Reg Wastewater Treatment Plant (limited access)1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

5/17/2026White Slough Wildlife Area (Ponds 9-13)1 observed

Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum

5/17/2026Orr Ranch (limited access)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Anna's Hummingbird

25/30/2026

Great Egret

25/30/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/30/2026

Swainson's Hawk

15/30/2026

Western Kingbird

15/30/2026

California Scrub-Jay

25/30/2026

Tree Swallow

155/30/2026

Bushtit

215/30/2026

Western Bluebird

35/30/2026

American Robin

15/30/2026

House Finch

25/30/2026

Spotted Towhee

15/30/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

15/30/2026

Mallard

25/30/2026

California Quail

25/30/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

35/30/2026

Mourning Dove

75/30/2026

Cooper's Hawk

15/30/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

45/30/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

25/30/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access) for birding?
The best months to visit Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access) for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access)?
Notable species at Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access) include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon. The area supports forest, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access)?
Birding at Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access)?
Cosumnes River Preserve - Tall Forest (limited access) offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.