Pixley National Wildlife Refuge

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Pixley National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in California, with 211 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Greater Roadrunner, Great Horned Owl, and Prairie Falcon 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

Vermilion Flycatcher

Pyrocephalus rubinus

3/4/2026Picket nwr - Alpaugh SE1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Greater Roadrunner

13/4/2026

Great Horned Owl

23/4/2026

Prairie Falcon

13/4/2026

Black Phoebe

13/4/2026

Say's Phoebe

13/4/2026

House Sparrow

13/4/2026

House Finch

23/4/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

83/4/2026

Golden-crowned Sparrow

23/4/2026

Savannah Sparrow

43/4/2026

Western Meadowlark

13/4/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

83/4/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

13/4/2026

Snow Goose

123/4/2026

Cinnamon Teal

1503/4/2026

Northern Shoveler

3753/4/2026

Gadwall

23/4/2026

Mallard

23/4/2026

Northern Pintail

63/4/2026

Green-winged Teal

823/4/2026

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 Pixley National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Pixley National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Pixley National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Pixley National Wildlife Refuge include Greater Roadrunner, Great Horned Owl, Prairie Falcon, Black Phoebe, Say's Phoebe. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pixley National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Pixley National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Pixley National Wildlife Refuge?
Pixley National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.