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

Least Bittern

Botaurus exilis

7/7/2026Shasta Valley WA--Trout Lake1 observed

American Goshawk

Astur atricapillus

7/4/2026Martin’s Dairy1 observed

Canada Jay

Perisoreus canadensis

6/30/2026Sylva's Cabin1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/10/2026

Turkey Vulture

27/10/2026

Swainson's Hawk

17/10/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/10/2026

Loggerhead Shrike

17/10/2026

Black-billed Magpie

47/10/2026

Bewick's Wren

27/10/2026

California Towhee

17/10/2026

Canada Goose

257/10/2026

Cinnamon Teal

67/10/2026

Mallard

207/10/2026

Ruddy Duck

57/10/2026

Mourning Dove

27/10/2026

Virginia Rail

17/10/2026

American Coot

57/10/2026

Sandhill Crane

47/10/2026

Killdeer

37/10/2026

Ring-billed Gull

37/10/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

107/10/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

47/10/2026

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.