Colusa National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Colusa National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall 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

American Avocet

Recurvirostra americana

3/2/2026Gray Lodge WA--Auto Loop (PL15 to PL18)3 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

3/1/2026Gray Lodge WA--Rutherford Rd. (Check Station to Refuge Office)1 observed

Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica

2/25/2026Colusa NWR--walking trail3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Greater White-fronted Goose

2/22/2026

Northern Shoveler

2/22/2026

Gadwall

82/22/2026

American Wigeon

22/22/2026

Mallard

22/22/2026

Northern Pintail

2/22/2026

Mourning Dove

12/22/2026

American Coot

42/22/2026

Black-necked Stilt

402/22/2026

Wilson's Snipe

12/22/2026

Ring-billed Gull

52/22/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

22/22/2026

White-faced Ibis

502/22/2026

Great Egret

82/22/2026

Turkey Vulture

42/22/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

22/22/2026

Nuttall's Woodpecker

12/22/2026

Black Phoebe

22/22/2026

Tree Swallow

12/22/2026

Bushtit

72/22/2026

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 Colusa National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Colusa National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge include Greater White-fronted Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge?
Colusa National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.