Wetland birding habitat

Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond

California · Southwest

Habitat
WetlandLakeRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond is a productive birding destination in California, with 208 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Wood Duck, and Bufflehead 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

Lawrence's Goldfinch

Spinus lawrencei

5/28/2026Rancho Breisgau - (BLM - foot traffic only)4 observed

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

5/28/2026Rancho Breisgau - (BLM - foot traffic only)1 observed

Western Flycatcher (Pacific-slope)

Empidonax difficilis

5/25/2026Rancho Breisgau - (BLM - foot traffic only)1 observed

Swainson's Hawk

Buteo swainsoni

5/25/2026Rancho Breisgau - (BLM - foot traffic only)2 observed

Black Swift

Cypseloides niger

5/23/2026RB backyard2 observed

Hooded Merganser

Lophodytes cucullatus

5/22/2026Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/27/2026

Wood Duck

125/27/2026

Cinnamon Teal

65/27/2026

Mallard

75/27/2026

Mourning Dove

25/27/2026

Common Gallinule

25/27/2026

Killdeer

95/27/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

105/27/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/27/2026

Turkey Vulture

45/27/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

45/27/2026

American Kestrel

15/27/2026

Western Kingbird

65/27/2026

California Scrub-Jay

35/27/2026

Common Raven

25/27/2026

Tree Swallow

205/27/2026

Barn Swallow

105/27/2026

Marsh Wren

25/27/2026

European Starling

25/27/2026

Yellow-headed Blackbird

25/27/2026

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 Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond for birding?
The best months to visit Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond?
Notable species at Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond include Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser. The area supports wetland, lake, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond?
Birding at Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond?
Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.