Lake birding habitat

Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 241 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/12/2026

White-faced Ibis

87/12/2026

European Starling

17/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/12/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

27/12/2026

Canada Goose

77/9/2026

Gadwall

27/9/2026

Lesser Scaup

27/9/2026

Ruddy Duck

707/9/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

87/9/2026

Mourning Dove

37/9/2026

Killdeer

27/9/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

17/9/2026

Ring-billed Gull

17/9/2026

California Gull

37/9/2026

Forster's Tern

17/9/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

17/9/2026

Eared Grebe

557/9/2026

Western Grebe

107/9/2026

Clark's Grebe

17/9/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.