Putah Creek Sinks

California · Southwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Putah Creek Sinks is a productive birding destination in California, with 200 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

3/5/2026MY PIT (for BIG SIT DATA)1 observed

Ruff

Calidris pugnax

3/4/2026Cosumnes River Preserve, Elk Grove US-CA 38.27782, -121.439661 observed

Tropical Kingbird

Tyrannus melancholicus

3/3/2026Bridgeway Island Pond1 observed

Orchard Oriole

Icterus spurius

3/2/2026Courtland Bottlebrush-Washington Ave1 observed

Least Bittern

Botaurus exilis

3/2/2026Davis Wetlands1 observed

Sage Thrasher

Oreoscoptes montanus

3/1/2026stakeout Sage Thrasher--CR104 south (YOL Co.) (2026)1 observed

Iceland Gull (kumlieni)

Larus glaucoides

3/1/2026CR104--Ponds1 observed

Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid)

Larus occidentalis x glaucescens

3/1/2026CR104--Ponds1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Putah Creek Sinks for birding?
The best months to visit Putah Creek Sinks for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Putah Creek Sinks?
Notable species at Putah Creek Sinks include Belted Kingfisher, Yellow Warbler, Song Sparrow, Great Blue Heron, Cedar Waxwing. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Putah Creek Sinks?
Birding at Putah Creek Sinks is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Putah Creek Sinks?
Putah Creek Sinks offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.