Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh

California · Southwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Wetland

Best Seasons

Fall Winter Spring

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh is a productive birding destination in California, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mute Swan, and American Wigeon among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Canada Goose Mute Swan American Wigeon Mallard Mourning Dove

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Black Turnstone

Arenaria melanocephala

7/10/2026McLaughlin Eastshore SP--Albany access1 observed

Allen's Hummingbird

Selasphorus sasin

7/10/2026McLaughlin Eastshore SP--Albany access1 observed

Brant

Branta bernicla

7/10/2026San Pablo Bay NWR--Hwy 37 Pullout/Cullinan Ranch Trail5 observed

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

7/9/2026Landfill Loop Trail1 observed

Brant (Black)

Branta bernicla

7/8/2026Salt Intake - Napa-Sonoma Marshes WA--Napa River Units - Pond 13 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

7/8/2026Dover Park2 observed

Glaucous-winged Gull

Larus glaucescens

7/8/2026Emeryville shoreline--near fire station1 observed

Least Tern

Sternula antillarum

7/7/2026Pt. Pinole Regional Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

47/10/2026

Mute Swan

27/10/2026

Mallard

27/10/2026

Black-necked Stilt

157/10/2026

Snowy Egret

17/10/2026

Great Egret

17/10/2026

American White Pelican

107/10/2026

Rock Pigeon

47/9/2026

Mourning Dove

37/9/2026

American Coot

67/9/2026

California Gull

27/9/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

27/9/2026

American Crow

37/9/2026

Common Raven

47/9/2026

Barn Swallow

67/9/2026

Marsh Wren

47/9/2026

American Robin

17/9/2026

House Sparrow

37/9/2026

Song Sparrow

27/9/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

37/9/2026

Birding Tips

1
Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.
2
Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.
3
Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Amenities

Parking

Restrooms

Trails

Visitor Center

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California Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in California →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh for birding?▼

The best months to visit Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.

What birds can I see at Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh?▼

Notable species at Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh include Canada Goose, Mute Swan, American Wigeon, Mallard, Mourning Dove. The area supports wetland habitats.

How difficult is birding at Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh?▼

Birding at Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh?▼

Waterbird Regional Preserve/McNabney Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.