Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge - Crystal Reservoir

Nevada · Southwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge - Crystal Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Nevada, with 230 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Blue-winged Teal, Cinnamon Teal, and Northern Shoveler 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

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/3/2026Ash Meadows NWR--Crystal Reservoir1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Cinnamon Teal

3/5/2026

Northern Shoveler

3/5/2026

Redhead

3/5/2026

Lesser Scaup

13/5/2026

Bufflehead

23/5/2026

Ruddy Duck

3/5/2026

American Coot

3/5/2026

Killdeer

13/5/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

33/5/2026

Ring-billed Gull

103/5/2026

Northern Harrier

13/5/2026

Marsh Wren

13/5/2026

American Pipit

123/5/2026

Gadwall

23/3/2026

American Wigeon

23/3/2026

Mallard

83/3/2026

Northern Pintail

13/3/2026

Green-winged Teal

403/3/2026

Common Goldeneye

103/3/2026

Hooded Merganser

13/3/2026

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