River/Riparian birding habitat

McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge

Oregon · West

Habitat
River/RiparianWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 213 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, American Wigeon, and Mallard among many others. The diverse terrain supports both resident specialties and Pacific Flyway migrants throughout the year.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

American Crow

47/18/2026

House Sparrow

27/18/2026

Swainson's Hawk

17/17/2026

California Quail

17/16/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/16/2026

California Scrub-Jay

27/16/2026

Red-breasted Nuthatch

17/16/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

57/16/2026

American Kestrel

27/12/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

37/12/2026

Common Nighthawk

17/11/2026

Cedar Waxwing

17/11/2026

Northern Flicker

17/10/2026

Violet-green Swallow

287/10/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

117/10/2026

European Starling

207/10/2026

American Robin

17/10/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

107/10/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

157/10/2026

Vaux's Swift

17/10/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

    Early mornings provide the best light and bird activity along the coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge for birding are March-May, September-November. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, American Wigeon, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Common Merganser. The area supports river/riparian, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge?
McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.