Wetland birding habitat

Mason Valley Wildlife Management Area

Nevada · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Mason Valley Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Nevada, with 217 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Mallard, American Coot, and Northern Harrier 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

Lesser Nighthawk

Chordeiles acutipennis

6/17/202689447, Yerington US-NV 39.16167, -119.229754 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

6/17/2026Mason Valley Wildlife Management Area, Yerington US-NV 39.09602, -119.125511 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

6/9/2026Weber Reservoir (permit required)1 observed

Least Tern

Sternula antillarum

6/8/2026Weber Reservoir-- south end1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

California Quail

46/18/2026

Mourning Dove

36/18/2026

Great Blue Heron

16/18/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

16/18/2026

Northern Flicker

16/18/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

36/18/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

16/18/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

16/18/2026

Northern House Wren

76/18/2026

Western Bluebird

26/18/2026

American Robin

66/18/2026

Song Sparrow

26/18/2026

Spotted Towhee

56/18/2026

Bullock's Oriole

16/18/2026

Common Yellowthroat

16/18/2026

Black-headed Grosbeak

46/18/2026

Canada Goose

16/18/2026

Cinnamon Teal

46/18/2026

Gadwall

6/18/2026

Ruddy Duck

66/18/2026

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