Desert birding habitat

Russ Ranch Wetlands

California · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Russ Ranch Wetlands is a productive birding destination in California, with 245 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

Loading map...

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

California Towhee

Melozone crissalis

5/29/2026Loleta Bottoms - Hawk's Hill Rd1 observed

Common Nighthawk

Chordeiles minor

5/29/2026MAMU Survey--HM1106, Allen Creek1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

5/28/2026Copenhagen Rd.3 observed

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

5/28/2026Copenhagen Rd, duck ponds CBC1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Olive-sided Flycatcher

15/24/2026

Barred Owl

15/23/2026

Band-tailed Pigeon

15/23/2026

Varied Thrush

35/23/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

45/23/2026

Song Sparrow

15/23/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

45/23/2026

Black Phoebe

15/23/2026

American Crow

15/23/2026

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

15/23/2026

Tree Swallow

25/23/2026

Violet-green Swallow

55/23/2026

American Robin

15/23/2026

Wilson's Warbler

15/23/2026

Black-headed Grosbeak

15/23/2026

Pine Siskin

55/22/2026

Common Raven

15/21/2026

Barn Swallow

75/21/2026

Swainson's Thrush

15/21/2026

Cedar Waxwing

85/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Russ Ranch Wetlands for birding?
The best months to visit Russ Ranch Wetlands for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Russ Ranch Wetlands?
Notable species at Russ Ranch Wetlands include Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Russ Ranch Wetlands?
Birding at Russ Ranch Wetlands is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Russ Ranch Wetlands?
Russ Ranch Wetlands offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.