Lake birding habitat

Washoe Lake State Park

Nevada · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Washoe Lake State Park is a productive birding destination in Nevada, with 215 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Rock Pigeon, Canada Goose, and Black-billed Magpie 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

Lawrence's Goldfinch

Spinus lawrencei

6/19/2026Browns Creek Trail1 observed

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

6/14/2026Carson River Park1 observed

Pileated Woodpecker

Dryocopus pileatus

6/11/2026Lower Marlette Creek area (Washoe Co.; Marlette Lake Trail below the switchbacks)1 observed

Tricolored Blackbird

Agelaius tricolor

6/7/2026453–547 William Brent Rd, Washoe Valley US-NV 39.26590, -119.835361 observed

Western Flycatcher

Empidonax difficilis

6/6/2026Jones Creek Loop Trail1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Great Egret

26/19/2026

Great Blue Heron

16/19/2026

American White Pelican

46/19/2026

Cinnamon Teal

36/18/2026

American Wigeon

26/18/2026

American Avocet

16/18/2026

Killdeer

36/18/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

66/18/2026

Willet

26/18/2026

Ring-billed Gull

6/18/2026

California Gull

6/18/2026

Common Raven

16/18/2026

Horned Lark

46/18/2026

Gadwall

46/13/2026

Mallard

26/13/2026

California Quail

36/13/2026

Mourning Dove

26/13/2026

Turkey Vulture

26/13/2026

American Kestrel

26/13/2026

Western Kingbird

16/13/2026

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 Washoe Lake State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Washoe Lake State Park for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Washoe Lake State Park?
Notable species at Washoe Lake State Park include Rock Pigeon, Canada Goose, Black-billed Magpie, Red-tailed Hawk, Great Horned Owl. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Washoe Lake State Park?
Birding at Washoe Lake State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Washoe Lake State Park?
Washoe Lake State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.