Wetland birding habitat

Modoc National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Modoc National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, and Cinnamon Teal 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

Black Phoebe

Sayornis nigricans

7/19/2026Mendiboure Ranch ( Likely Unit)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

407/21/2026

Mallard

107/21/2026

Sandhill Crane

27/21/2026

Black-necked Stilt

67/21/2026

Killdeer

17/21/2026

White-faced Ibis

47/21/2026

Great Egret

27/21/2026

Cliff Swallow

17/21/2026

Savannah Sparrow

17/21/2026

Ruddy Duck

27/15/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/15/2026

American Coot

57/15/2026

American Avocet

107/15/2026

Ring-billed Gull

87/15/2026

Caspian Tern

107/15/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

27/15/2026

Black-billed Magpie

17/15/2026

Violet-green Swallow

57/15/2026

House Sparrow

47/15/2026

Yellow-headed Blackbird

27/15/2026

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