Coastal birding habitat

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Oregon · West

Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Northern Shoveler 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

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Townsend's Solitaire

Myadestes townsendi

7/12/2026Lindsey Ridge Tie Rd1 observed

Red Crossbill (Sitka Spruce or type 10)

Loxia curvirostra

7/11/2026Tillamook rental6 observed

Red Crossbill (Douglas-fir or type 4)

Loxia curvirostra

7/10/2026Tillamook rental8 observed

Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted x Red-shafted)

Colaptes auratus

7/9/2026Cape Lookout SP--Day Use Area/Campground1 observed

Western Flycatcher (Pacific-slope)

Empidonax difficilis

7/8/2026Cascade Head5 observed

Red Crossbill (Western Hemlock or type 3)

Loxia curvirostra

7/8/2026Tillamook rental8 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Double-crested Cormorant

147/11/2026

Turkey Vulture

27/11/2026

Western Flycatcher

17/11/2026

Western Warbling Vireo

17/11/2026

American Crow

17/11/2026

Violet-green Swallow

17/11/2026

Barn Swallow

157/11/2026

Cliff Swallow

27/11/2026

Pacific Wren

27/11/2026

Swainson's Thrush

17/11/2026

American Robin

47/11/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

27/11/2026

Wilson's Warbler

27/11/2026

Rufous Hummingbird

27/5/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/5/2026

Northern Flicker

17/5/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

17/5/2026

Cedar Waxwing

17/5/2026

Song Sparrow

17/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

17/5/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge for birding are March-May, September-November. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Eurasian Wigeon, American Wigeon. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge?
Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.