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

Swainson's Hawk

Buteo swainsoni

7/20/2026Rancho Breisgau - (BLM - foot traffic only)2 observed

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

7/20/2026Rancho Breisgau - (BLM - foot traffic only)2 observed

Vaux's Swift

Chaetura vauxi

7/18/2026RB backyard3 observed

Rufous-crowned Sparrow

Aimophila ruficeps

7/16/202628470–28472 Wildcat Rd, Shingletown US-CA 40.43986, -121.985571 observed

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

7/15/2026Jellys Ferry Rd.- between the Sacramento River and Battle Creek (county line)1 observed

Redhead

Aythya americana

7/11/2026St. Mary’s Ave and Pond3 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

7/9/2026Paynes Creek Wetland including Bass Pond1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

27/19/2026

Mourning Dove

67/19/2026

Virginia Rail

17/19/2026

Common Gallinule

137/19/2026

Killdeer

17/19/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

67/19/2026

Great Egret

57/19/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/19/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/19/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/19/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

37/19/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

17/19/2026

Black Phoebe

17/19/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

27/19/2026

Western Kingbird

17/19/2026

California Scrub-Jay

27/19/2026

Common Raven

27/19/2026

Oak Titmouse

27/19/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/19/2026

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.