Merced National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Merced National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 241 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Wilson's Snipe, and Cooper's Hawk 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

Northern Yellow Warbler

Setophaga aestiva

3/1/2026Merced NWR--viewing platform at Pintail Marsh1 observed

Merlin (Black)

Falco columbarius

2/28/2026Merced NWR--Auto Tour Route (4.8-mile one-way loop road)1 observed

Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed)

Leiothlypis celata

2/28/2026Merced NWR--Auto Tour Route (4.8-mile one-way loop road)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

100003/6/2026

Ross's Goose

13/6/2026

Cackling Goose

1003/6/2026

Blue-winged Teal

23/6/2026

Cinnamon Teal

113/6/2026

Northern Shoveler

20013/6/2026

Gadwall

63/6/2026

American Wigeon

23/6/2026

Mallard

23/6/2026

Northern Pintail

103/6/2026

Ring-necked Duck

53/6/2026

Ruddy Duck

53/6/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

23/6/2026

Mourning Dove

63/6/2026

Virginia Rail

23/6/2026

American Coot

20003/6/2026

Sandhill Crane

2003/6/2026

Black-necked Stilt

1003/6/2026

American Avocet

203/6/2026

Killdeer

83/6/2026

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 Merced National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Merced National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Merced National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Merced National Wildlife Refuge include Snow Goose, Wilson's Snipe, Cooper's Hawk, Ross's Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Merced National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Merced National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Merced National Wildlife Refuge?
Merced National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.