Modoc National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Modoc National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, and Cinnamon Teal 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

Sandhill Crane (Lesser)

Antigone canadensis

3/2/2026Modoc NWR (CA Atlas - Alturas CE)8 observed

Black Phoebe

Sayornis nigricans

3/2/2026Modoc NWR (CA Atlas - Alturas CE)1 observed

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

3/2/2026Blacks Canyon Reservoir (CA Atlas - Washington Mountain SE)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

3403/3/2026

Tundra Swan

23/3/2026

Cinnamon Teal

33/3/2026

Gadwall

413/3/2026

American Wigeon

353/3/2026

Mallard

1643/3/2026

Northern Pintail

153/3/2026

Green-winged Teal

1623/3/2026

Bufflehead

2053/3/2026

Common Goldeneye

143/3/2026

Virginia Rail

13/3/2026

American Coot

333/3/2026

Sandhill Crane

783/3/2026

Killdeer

33/3/2026

Ring-billed Gull

7253/3/2026

California Gull

13/3/2026

American White Pelican

33/3/2026

Northern Harrier

43/3/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

23/3/2026

Northern Flicker

13/3/2026

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