Wetland birding habitat

Shasta Valley Wildlife Area

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Shasta Valley Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in California, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall 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

Canada Jay

Perisoreus canadensis

5/30/2026Martin's Dairy Day Use Area, Forest Route 46N10, Macdoel, California, US (41.791, -122.199)3 observed

Short-eared Owl

Asio flammeus

5/29/2026Shasta Valley Wildlife Area1 observed

Lawrence's Goldfinch

Spinus lawrencei

5/27/2026Bennett Drive Uplands1 observed

California Thrasher

Toxostoma redivivum

5/24/2026361–363 Humbug Rd, Yreka US-CA 41.75375, -122.669051 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

255/29/2026

Cinnamon Teal

25/29/2026

Gadwall

85/29/2026

Mallard

65/29/2026

Redhead

65/29/2026

Ring-necked Duck

45/29/2026

California Quail

65/29/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

5/29/2026

Rock Pigeon

45/29/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

35/29/2026

Mourning Dove

25/29/2026

American Coot

55/29/2026

Sandhill Crane

25/29/2026

Killdeer

15/29/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

45/29/2026

American White Pelican

45/29/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/29/2026

Osprey

25/29/2026

Golden Eagle

15/29/2026

Northern Harrier

15/29/2026

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 Shasta Valley Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Shasta Valley Wildlife Area for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Shasta Valley Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Shasta Valley Wildlife Area include Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Shasta Valley Wildlife Area?
Birding at Shasta Valley Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Shasta Valley Wildlife Area?
Shasta Valley Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.