Merced National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Merced National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 241 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Wilson's Snipe, and Cooper's Hawk 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

Northern Yellow Warbler

Setophaga aestiva

3/1/2026Merced NWR--viewing platform at Pintail Marsh1 observed

Merlin (Black)

Falco columbarius

2/28/2026Merced NWR--Auto Tour Route (4.8-mile one-way loop road)1 observed

Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed)

Leiothlypis celata

2/28/2026Merced NWR--Auto Tour Route (4.8-mile one-way loop road)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

20003/5/2026

Ross's Goose

3003/5/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

6003/5/2026

Cackling Goose

10003/5/2026

Canada Goose

1503/5/2026

Blue-winged Teal

83/5/2026

Cinnamon Teal

503/5/2026

Northern Shoveler

10003/5/2026

Gadwall

4003/5/2026

American Wigeon

253/5/2026

Mallard

503/5/2026

Northern Pintail

753/5/2026

Green-winged Teal

303/5/2026

Ring-necked Duck

1503/5/2026

Bufflehead

153/5/2026

Ruddy Duck

103/5/2026

Rock Pigeon

23/5/2026

Mourning Dove

83/5/2026

Virginia Rail

23/5/2026

Sora

13/5/2026

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