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

Marbled Godwit

Limosa fedoa

4/17/2026Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond1 observed

Lawrence's Goldfinch

Spinus lawrencei

4/15/2026Parkville Cemetery9 observed

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

4/15/2026William Ide Adobe SHP2 observed

Lazuli Bunting

Passerina amoena

4/14/2026Clear Creek WTP1 observed

Lesser Yellowlegs

Tringa flavipes

4/13/2026Clear Creek WTP1 observed

MacGillivray's Warbler

Geothlypis tolmiei

4/12/2026Battle Creek Wildlife Area1 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

4/8/2026Jelly's Ferry Road & I-5, Tehama County1 observed

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

4/6/2026Parkville Rd.1 observed

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Myiarchus cinerascens

4/5/2026South Volonte Wetland Trail1 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle x Audubon's)

Setophaga coronata

4/4/2026Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

64/17/2026

Wood Duck

124/17/2026

Cinnamon Teal

44/17/2026

Mallard

64/17/2026

California Quail

24/17/2026

Wild Turkey

24/17/2026

Lesser Nighthawk

24/17/2026

Common Gallinule

24/17/2026

American Coot

54/17/2026

Killdeer

44/17/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

154/17/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

44/17/2026

American Bittern

34/17/2026

Great Egret

34/17/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

64/17/2026

Tree Swallow

3004/17/2026

Barn Swallow

204/17/2026

Marsh Wren

24/17/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

64/17/2026

Yellow-headed Blackbird

44/17/2026

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.