Shasta Valley Wildlife Area

California · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Shasta Valley Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in California, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada 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

Cliff Swallow

Petrochelidon pyrrhonota

3/2/20261914 County Highway A12, Montague, California, US (41.648, -122.499)6 observed

American Bittern

Botaurus lentiginosus

2/28/2026Cedar Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

303/2/2026

Northern Shoveler

103/2/2026

Gadwall

103/2/2026

American Wigeon

53/2/2026

Mallard

103/2/2026

Green-winged Teal

103/2/2026

Ring-necked Duck

103/2/2026

Lesser Scaup

23/2/2026

Bufflehead

203/2/2026

Common Goldeneye

23/2/2026

Ruddy Duck

53/2/2026

Rock Pigeon

33/2/2026

Mourning Dove

23/2/2026

American Coot

1003/2/2026

Killdeer

183/2/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

13/2/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

43/2/2026

Eared Grebe

13/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

53/2/2026

Turkey Vulture

13/2/2026

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