Desert birding habitat

Rye Patch Dam

Nevada · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Rye Patch Dam is a productive birding destination in Nevada, with 212 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Mallard, Common Merganser, and California Quail 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

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

4/12/2026Unionville (town)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/12/2026

Cinnamon Teal

44/12/2026

Mallard

44/12/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

14/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

24/12/2026

Common Raven

14/12/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

504/12/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

14/12/2026

Bewick's Wren

14/12/2026

House Finch

104/12/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

124/12/2026

Song Sparrow

64/12/2026

Spotted Towhee

24/12/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

24/12/2026

California Quail

14/11/2026

Killdeer

24/11/2026

Wilson's Snipe

44/11/2026

Clark's Grebe

14/11/2026

White-faced Ibis

54/11/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/11/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Rye Patch Dam for birding?
The best months to visit Rye Patch Dam for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Rye Patch Dam?
Notable species at Rye Patch Dam include Mallard, Common Merganser, California Quail, American Coot, Great Blue Heron. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rye Patch Dam?
Birding at Rye Patch Dam is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rye Patch Dam?
Rye Patch Dam offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.