San Luis National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

San Luis National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, 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

Northern Yellow Warbler

Setophaga aestiva

3/1/2026Merced NWR--viewing platform at Pintail Marsh1 observed

Merlin (Black)

Falco columbarius

2/28/2026Merced NWR--Auto Tour Route (4.8-mile one-way loop road)1 observed

Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed)

Leiothlypis celata

2/28/2026Merced NWR--Auto Tour Route (4.8-mile one-way loop road)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Greater White-fronted Goose

83/3/2026

Canada Goose

43/3/2026

Cinnamon Teal

53/3/2026

Northern Shoveler

653/3/2026

Gadwall

83/3/2026

American Wigeon

43/3/2026

Mallard

43/3/2026

Northern Pintail

73/3/2026

Green-winged Teal

23/3/2026

Ruddy Duck

23/3/2026

California Quail

53/3/2026

Rock Pigeon

13/3/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

13/3/2026

Mourning Dove

63/3/2026

Sora

13/3/2026

Common Gallinule

13/3/2026

American Coot

723/3/2026

Sandhill Crane

223/3/2026

Black-necked Stilt

143/3/2026

Killdeer

33/3/2026

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