Sacramento County

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Gibson Ranch Regional Park

This 355-acre regional park has many options for recreation including great birding. In addition to an equestrian center, there are large expanses of mowed grass and several playground areas. Fishing is permitted in the lake which supports gulls, cormorants and assorted ducks and geese. With luck, a Green Heron may be hunting near the reeds.

Birding the Site: The best birding is along Dry Creek. From the entrance gate, drive 1.5 miles to where the road dead ends in a large parking lot. Heading south on the trail, you will find a dense riparian corridor of huge old oaks, sycamores, and a variety of stream-side bushes, especially poison oak! Checking the open fields to the west may yield Western Bluebirds, Killdeers, Wild Turkeys, American Pipits and Meadowlarks. Dry Creek runs year-round and may produce herons, egrets and with certainty, Mallards.

This trail is at its best during spring and fall migration with large numbers of sparrows, warblers and kinglets in the canopy and on the ground. In appropriate seasons, Northern Flickers, Acorn, Downy, and Nuttall’s Woodpeckers are present along with an occasional Red-breasted Sapsucker and more common residents. eBird Sightings

Directions: From downtown Sacramento, head easterly on either I-80 or Bus. 80, noting Watt Ave where these freeways converge. From here, continue 3 miles northeast to the Greenback Ln/Elkhorn Blvd Exit. Turn left (west) on Elkhorn and drive west for about 3 miles to Watt Ave. Turn right on Watt and drive north about 2 miles to Elverta Rd. Turn left and drive west 0.7 miles to the Park entrance on your right. There is a $7 parking fee, or your Sac County Park Pass works here.

The Natomas area extends from the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers to the Sutter County line, and from the Sacramento River to the Natomas East Main Drainage Canal (changed back to its original name of Steelhead Creek). Natomas is the southern-most region of the Sutter Basin, originally a large area of riparian forest, marshes and grassland where elk, deer, bears and birds were plentiful. One good way to bird this area is to cruise the farm roads and stop at promising fields and canals.

Birding the site: Because of its varied habitat, a large variety of birds may be seen. Swainson’s Hawks are present from April through September and are best observed while on the Garden Highway from North Bayou Way to Elverta Road. Tricolored Blackbirds have been known to nest near the East Levee Road just south of Riego Road. To find them, look for cattle and standing water in grassy areas with blackberry bushes growing on paddock fences. Scan every flock, as they travel with Brewer’s Blackbirds and Red-winged Blackbirds. eBird Sightings

Rice fields and canals attract many different species, including Black-crowned Night-Heron, Green Heron, Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, White-faced Ibis, Double-crested Cormorant, Cinnamon Teal, Pied-billed Grebe, Long-billed Curlew, American Coot and Common Gallinule. As you travel through the rice fields, be on the lookout for Black Terns. Perhaps you will be the first person in over 50 years to report a breeding pair in Sacramento County. In the winter, the fields host a large number of migratory ducks, geese and shorebirds, and weedy fields and roadside tangles host a variety of sparrows. Watch for Loggerhead Shrikes and, in summer, Western Kingbirds on the power lines.

The riparian area along the Garden Highway is rife with Oak Titmouse, Downy Woodpecker, and Nuttall’s Woodpecker year-round, and migrant warblers, Western Tanagers, and other songbirds in spring and fall. Raptors common to the area are Red-tailed Hawks, Red-shouldered Hawks, American Kestrels, White-tailed Kites and Northern Harriers.

Going east on Elverta Road to the East Levee Road, scan the fields and irrigation ditches. Turn right on East Levee Road and stop where it is safe to view waterfowl, shorebirds and waders in Steelhead Creek eBird Sightings. Continue south on East Levee Road to Elkhorn Boulevard. At the southeast corner of the intersection, you reach the gravel parking lot for the Ueda Parkway (see Wolf Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, Ueda Parkway).

Directions: North Natomas can be reached via Interstate 5 or Interstate 80. The most direct route is to go north on Interstate 5 from downtown Sacramento (2.8 miles from Highway 50) and exit at the Garden Highway (the first exit after crossing the American River). Go right or west under Interstate 5. The Garden Highway is a narrow levee road, so caution is advised when driving. In 6.8 miles, the Garden Highway reaches Power Line Road. Heading north, Power Line Road crosses Elkhorn Boulevard, Elverta Road, and Riego Road. Highway 99, heading north from Interstate 5, also intersects these roads.

Carl Burke

Birding the Site: This is a good place for a leisurely walk with about half a mile of wide concrete paths over fairly flat terrain with little incline. A rougher dirt trail can be followed around much of a small reservoir that is located in the park. The park itself is mostly mowed grass with a large playground, but a wide variety of grassland species including Killdeer, Meadowlarks, Ring-necked Pheasants, Turkeys and Savannah Sparrows are possible. In winter, several species of raptors, including falcons, are also possibilities along with herons, egrets, and waterfowl and shorebirds. Several rarities have been found here in recent years including a Vermilion Flycatcher and a Clay-colored Sparrow - both reported in 2020. eBird Sightings

Directions: From I-80, take Truxel Road exit #88 and go north. Turn left on Natomas Crossing Drive, then left on Bilsted Way to the large parking lot.

Maureen Geiger

Birding the Site: If you have never been to Hansen Ranch, you are in for a treat. A leisurely walk on the levee above the pond in both directions shows the preserve's many unique qualities. The habitat is mainly dense marsh formed by a tributary of Dry Creek, but north of the levee, there are open fields where cattle graze year-round and a tree line in the distance. These trees host a heron and egret rookery in the spring. Turkey and coyote might be present strolling across the grasslands. In January, various species of waterfowl, along with hawks and falcons, could be present. The pond has an active beaver colony and other surprises hidden in the tules. This is excellent habitat for rails and they can be heard regularly as you walk along the marsh. eBird Sightings

Directions: From I-80, exit on Northgate Boulevard and head north to the T. Turn right onto Main Avenue, then left on Kelton Way. Parking here is an issue. Although there are “No Parking” signs along both sides of Kelton, on the north end of the road where the signs have not yet begun, there is space on both sides for several cars between the signs and the end of Kelton.

Maureen Geiger

Wolf Ranch, formally open pasture in Rio Linda, was purchased by the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (SAFCA) and used as a borrow pit and source of fill for the North Area Local Project Levee improvements. Approximately 800,000 cubic yards of soil were excavated, allowing for the creation of a 60-acre wetland complex with five habitat types ranging from open water and wetlands to upland forests. In 1997, SAFCA planted the site with wetland plants and native riparian shrubs and trees. As Wolf Ranch has continued to mature into a sustainable wetland and wooded upland, there has been a significant increase in bird species and diversity, increasing from 58 species recorded in 2001 to 139 species reported in eBird as of April 2024.

Birding the site: From the parking lot, walk around the gate to Sorento Road and head south. Granite Construction Company and a very large commercial parking area will be on your left, behind a cyclone fence. On your right, Steelhead Creek parallels Sorento Road. Check the creek for Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, Greater Yellowlegs, Wilson’s Snipe, and other wading birds and shorebirds. In winter, Savannah Sparrows are fairly common.

At about one-half mile south on Sorento Road, you will see another gate and the wetland restoration area. Follow the wide dirt path around the wetland in either direction—the total distance is about 1.5 miles on flat terrain.

Walking in a clockwise direction, you will eventually come to a drainage ditch along a railroad track. A careful inspection of this area may yield an American Bittern or other wading bird species. Continuing the loop around the wetlands, there are many opportunities for viewing open water and a variety of birds. In the winter look for Double-crested Cormorant, Canvasback, Northern Shoveler, Cinnamon Teal, and other waterfowl. Also keep an eye on the telephone poles and fence posts for Red-tailed Hawks, American Kestrels, and Loggerhead Shrikes. If you look closely in the trees and shrubs, you may also see warblers, kinglets, hummingbirds, and perhaps a Downy Woodpecker or two. Great-tailed Grackles are a possibility here in spring and summer.

Walking past the south end of the wetland you will eventually see the continuation of Steelhead Creek on your left, heading toward Sorento Road and the parking area. The road on the south side of the site is flooded during the winter. The best birding is in winter and spring. eBird Sightings

Directions: From downtown Sacramento, take Interstate 5 for 7 miles north of Highway 50. Take the Highway 99/Highway 70 exit (exit 525B) toward Marysville/Yuba City. In 1.1 miles, exit at Elkhorn Boulevard and go right. Continue 2.9 miles, cross Steelhead Creek, and make an immediate right turn into the parking lot at Elkhorn and Sorento Road. You will see a sign for the Walter S. Ueda Parkway in the parking lot.

Brian Gilmore

Special thanks to SAFCA for their help in writing this guide to Wolf Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary.

Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge south of Sacramento is beautifully designed for families with small children and those with mobility challenges as it offers a wide, level cement trail that loops through the Refuge. Designed to meet a wide range of mobility needs, the facility includes handicapped parking, accessible restrooms, handicap ramp access from parking lot, and wide level concrete trails. To learn more about the accessibility of this location visit Accessible Birding.

Birding the site: This varied habitat may produce interesting birds, especially in the fall and winter. The marsh has turned up Green Heron, Sora, Belted Kingfisher, Song Sparrow, and Common Yellowthroat while in the surrounding ag and fallow fields Swainson’s Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, doves, and meadowlarks can be found. A scope may be beneficial in scanning the surrounding fields and ponds. Several small stands of Milkweed have attracted migrating Monarch butterflies. eBird Sightings

Directions: From Sacramento, drive south on I-5 for 16 miles to Exit 504, Hood-Franklin Road. Turn right and drive west 0.8 of a mile to the NWR entrance on the left. There is a large parking lot and restrooms.

Learn more about the Refuge at U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

Paul Miller

When the Sacramento Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant was constructed in 1978, 2,650 acres were set aside to buffer the surrounding community from odors, noise, and industrial activities related to wastewater treatment. The Bufferlands is an island of open space between South Sacramento and Elk Grove, situated between Interstate 5 and Franklin Boulevard, and north of Laguna Boulevard, with an additional 160 acres west of Interstate 5 and adjacent to Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. Since 1990, over 250 acres of riparian forest and associated woodlands have been planted with 31,000 trees and shrubs, 115 acres of grasslands have been seeded with native species, and over 300 acres of wetlands are managed for waterfowl and other waterbirds.

The bird list currently stands at 244 species. Highlights include thousands of waterfowl, with Canvasback numbers that have topped 15,000. There are up to four Swainson’s Hawk nests each year and Blue Grosbeaks are a conspicuous nesting species. Over the years, rarities have included American Golden-Plover, Ruff, nesting Least Terns, Blackburnian Warbler, Canada Warbler, and Indigo Bunting. Currently there is no unguided public access, but information on the numerous public tours can be found on the Bufferlands Event Calendar. Bird-focused tours are also offered on occasion with the Sacramento Audubon Society, check out our Calendar of Events for upcoming tours. eBird Sightings

Situated between housing on the north and south, this trail meanders along the creek and marshy areas and is bordered by urban plantings including many oaks. The diversity hosts a nice variety of birds such as ducks, herons, passerines and sparrows, with unexpected species always a possibility.

Birding the Site:  Beginning at Jack Hill Park, check the trees in the park for warblers, bushtits, and bluebirds. Olive-sided Flycatchers and Warbling Vireo have been spotted here, in the late spring. Head west out of the park and across the bridge, scan the water for herons, egrets, and ducks. At the end of the bridge, turn left following the bike path until it forks. Take the left path and continue along the paved trail as long as you wish. As you walk, keep an eye on the water for Wood Ducks, Pied-billed Grebe, and Common Gallinule. Look for woodpeckers among the oaks. In the winter, sparrows hop along the paths. In summer, Tree and Cliff Swallows fill the air and a variety of raptors can be seen year-round. In April 2021, a Common Poorwill was photographed near the trail.  After about 1.5 miles, you’ll reach Camden Lake, crossing under Elk Grove Florin Road and Bond Road. Before you reach Camden Lake, be sure to check the water for otters and beavers. In this same stretch, there is a large dead tree in which the Cormorants roost. eBird Sightings

The North Laguna Creek Wildlife Area is a nearby partially accessible birding location.

Directions: From Highway 99 south, exit at Elk Grove Boulevard (exit 286). Turn left onto Elk Grove Boulevard and cross Elk Grove-Florin Road. From here drive 0.80 miles east, then turn left onto Porto Rosa Drive. Follow it northerly for 0.5 miles to Jack Hill Park and the parking area. If the parking lot is not open, park on the non-residential side of Porta Rosa Drive. Parking in front of the homes on Porta Rosa may result in your car being towed. Restrooms are available in the parking lot.

NOTE: Please be advised of road closures in the area. Current directions and information can be found at www.cosumnes.org. The preserve will remain open during these closures.

The Cosumnes River is the last free-flowing river coming out of the west slope of the Sierra. A wide swath of the lower floodplain and surrounding habitat is preserved within the more than 45,000-acre Cosumnes River Project south of Elk Grove. A wide variety of habitats can be found, including wetlands, grasslands, wildlife-friendly agriculture, and perhaps the most intact valley oak riparian forest in existence. The preserve is managed by a partnership including the Nature Conservancy, the Bureau of Land Management, Ducks Unlimited, Sacramento County Parks and Open Space, the California Department of Fish and Game, the California Department of Water Resources, and the Wildlife Conservation Board. The preserve is designated as a Globally Important Bird Area, and 300 species have been recorded, including many rarities.

Despite its excellent track record, the preserve is under-birded. It is worthy of a visit in just about any season, though things are slower in June and July. For an introduction to the preserve’s avifauna, you can join one of the monthly bird surveys. The visitor center has informative displays, maps, bird lists, and trail guides available. The trails are open from sunrise to sunset, though there is limited parking when the visitor center parking lot gates are closed. For more information visit their website.

This site is an Accessible Birding location. To learn more about the accessibility of this location visit Accessible Birding.

Note: In spring and summer, mosquitoes can be abundant and aggressive. Ticks can also be numerous if you leave the trail. Bring repellent. Mountain lions have been reported on several occasions.

Birding the site: Two trails begin at the visitor center: the one-mile Wetlands Walk and the three-mile River Walk. The Wetlands Walk goes along the Lost Slough Wetlands to the west of Franklin Boulevard. A scope is helpful to spot distant waterfowl. The boardwalk heading west from the Wetlands Walk can be excellent for rails. Sandhill Cranes (late September to early March) are often fairly close to the trail. In spring and summer, Blue Grosbeaks (uncommon) sit up and sing from the low vegetation. Continuing north on the trail, you can cross Franklin Boulevard and loop back to the visitor center via the foot bridge or keep going on the River Walk.

The River Walk begins at the visitor center by crossing Willow Slough on a substantial foot bridge. The bridge provides an excellent vantage point for seeing songbirds in the adjacent riparian vegetation. On the east side of the slough, the wetlands provide good views of waterfowl and other waterbirds. Swamp Sparrows (very rare) have been found here and elsewhere on the wetland edges. For a half-mile, the trail stays near the wetlands, where rails, American Bitterns, and Common Yellowthroats can often be seen or heard.

The trail passes through a mix of habitats, with willow-dominated and oak-dominated riparian forest, and areas of oak savanna. In spring and fall, there can be an excellent movement of songbird migrants. Wrentits call from the underbrush, and in spring and summer the songs of Bewick’s Wrens, House Wrens, and Spotted Towhees fill the air.  Several species of eastern warblers have been found along the trail, including Prothonotary and Black-throated Blue Warbler. As the trail reaches the Cosumnes River, it comes to a nice patch of mature valley oaks. The trail will lead you under railroad tracks, through an open section, then close to the river in a forest of medium-sized valley oaks. This area is known as “the Point” and has produced many of the preserve’s interesting records. There are benches next to the river to allow a break from walking. The trail makes a partial loop through grassland and oak savanna, and then backtracks to the visitor center. Despite all that this trail has to offer, there are many mornings when there are no birders to find its avian surprises. The first group out in the morning often flushes several flocks of Wood Ducks and may see river otters and beavers. eBird Sightings - Wetlands walk, Boardwalk, Headquarters, River Walk

Desmond Road is excellent for waterfowl and crane viewing. Mornings and evenings can be spectacular. It goes east from Franklin Boulevard, one mile south of Twin Cities Road or 0.7 mile north of the visitor center. It is one of the better places to find Eurasian Wigeon and often harbors thousands of Greater White-fronted Geese. Check the wetlands on either side of the road and along Bruceville Road going north toward Twin Cities Road. Along Bruceville Road, the large microwave tower often serves as a lookout for a Peregrine Falcon.

To explore the Valensin portion of the preserve to the east of Highway 99, take Twin Cities Road six miles east of Bruceville Road and go north on Highway 99 for two miles to Arno Road. Exit and head east on Arno Road. Dairies along this and other roads in the area can host large flocks of blackbirds, including Tricolored Blackbirds. In 0.4 mile you might want to check the small cemetery on the north side of Arno Road. The old headstones are interesting, and this is a good area to scan the grasslands well away from the road, with its sparse but often speeding traffic. Keep an eye on the grasslands and agricultural lands for raptors, cranes, and Long-billed Curlews. In another 1.2 miles, turn left to stay on Arno Road. Continue north and it will become Riley Road. This section of road has little traffic and allows for more relaxed observations. Near the second creek crossing, look for raised areas to the east of the road that might harbor Burrowing Owls. The grasslands in this area often host Ferruginous Hawks. Horned Lark flocks have contained longspurs. Riley joins Dillard Road, and a left turn will take you back to Highway 99 in 2.7 miles. If you still feel like exploring, head east on Dillard Road beyond the preserve. Between Dillard and Twin Cities Roads, Alta Mesa and Clay Station Roads can be productive for open country birds. Continuing east on Twin Cities Road will take you to Rancho Seco and the Howard Ranch described below.

NOTE: Please be advised of road closures in the area. Current directions and information can be found at www.cosumnes.org. The preserve will remain open during these closures.

Directions: To reach the visitor center, take Interstate 5 about 20 miles south from Sacramento until Exit 498, Twin Cities Road. Turn left and go east on Twin Cities Road for one mile to Franklin Boulevard. At the stop sign, go south for 1.7 miles, and the visitor center will be on your left. Address: 13501 Franklin Blvd.

To learn more about the accessibility of this location visit Accessible Birding.

The Rancho Seco Recreational Area consists of a reservoir lined with riparian vegetation and a campground and day use area with planted trees and lawn. It has the potential to serve as a migrant trap, since the surrounding habitat is open grassland. It also provides the only public access to the Howard Ranch—a 12,000-acre preserve of grasslands, vernal pools, and oak woodlands. It is a working cattle ranch that was purchased by the Nature Conservancy in 1999 as part of the Cosumnes River Preserve Project and sold to a rancher with a conservation easement precluding development.

Rancho Seco is 55 minutes southeast of downtown Sacramento. It is a decommissioned nuclear facility owned by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD). The park is open year-round from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The entrance gate is locked every night. For more information, check SMUD.

Birding the site: From the entrance kiosk, where a Sage Thrasher was found in October 2004, continue to the reservoir. Just before reaching the dam, there is a large parking area on the left where you can scan the lake for waterbirds. It is best on weekday mornings before crowds of people have flushed the birds.

For the Howard Ranch trail, go left before crossing the dam, and continue down the dirt track to the parking area at the trailhead (you might consider parking nearer the main road so that your vehicle is visible and less likely to be broken into). The trail is a seven-mile loop. The first portion goes along the lakeshore, providing views of the lake and access to the riparian vegetation, where sparrows and other songbirds may be found. Much of the trail goes through open grassland, so bird diversity is low. Ferruginous Hawks and other winter raptors may be present. Burrowing Owls have been found beneath the bridges. In early spring, there is a wonderful wildflower show, and Horned Larks and Western Meadowlarks are in full song—in spring Western Meadowlarks perform flight songs with extra flourishes to their already spectacular song. Unfortunately, the trail does not reach east into the oak woodlands, but it is good to know that this habitat has been protected from development. Be sure to close any gates you have to open on the trail, since cattle are grazing there from fall through spring. In the warmer months, beware that wasps are sometimes living in the gates. eBird Sightings

To reach the campground and day use area, drive across the dam. You might notice several oryx on your right at the animal sanctuary. Continuing toward the campground, check the rolling grasslands for raptors and the fences for sparrows. The trees around the campground may harbor interesting migrants or wintering birds. In the evenings in summer you may see Lesser Nighthawks foraging over the lake.

Rancho Seco Howard Ranch Trail Map & Fact Sheet

Directions: From Sacramento, take Highway 99 south of Highway 50/Capital City Freeway for 20 miles to the Twin Cities Road/Highway 104 exit. Go east on Highway 104 for 12 miles to Rancho Seco Park. Take the first right after passing the two towers and head to the entrance kiosk (currently a $12 fee).

This seldom visited portion of Sacramento County, including Sherman Island and Brannan Island, has a lot of potential. There can be thousands of waterfowl, and many raptors, shorebirds, sparrows, and blackbirds (including Yellow-headed and Tricolored). Surprise finds have included Brant, Tufted Duck, Long-tailed Duck, White-winged Scoter, Ruff, Brown Pelican, Tropical and Cassin's kingbirds, and Common Grackle. Large rafts of ducks on the Sacramento and, especially, the San Joaquin rivers often include good numbers of Greater Scaup (rare farther inland) and near annual reports of Surf Scoters. Fair numbers of Swainson's Hawks spend the winter here. The area is typically most productive (and visited) in winter, but has potential year-round. As one would expect from an area popular with wind surfers, it is often very windy, which can impede birding. Other Delta “islands” are also worth exploring.

Birding the site: A good place to check on the way to Sherman Island is Korth’s Marina (aka Pirates Lair Marina) on Brannan Island Road. After crossing the Mokelumne River on Highway 12, 10 miles from Interstate 5, turn right on Brannan Island Road (watch for “Delta Loop” signs). Follow the road south under the highway for 2.9 miles. Park (there is free, short-term parking at Riverboat Marina/Delta Boat Works, but beware of paid-only parking near the boat launches) and check the trees. You can walk past mobile homes to an area overlooking a pond and continue out to a view of the San Joaquin River, returning to your car along the main road. Hooded Orioles may be around the palm trees in spring and summer. This place has all the makings of a vagrant trap. There is often an active heron rookery starting in late winter. eBird Sightings.

Continue on the Delta Loop toward Highway 160. Parking is limited but check the San Joaquin River where you can. An Emperor Goose was found in the ag fields among the enormous goose flocks in 2016 near the intersection with Jackson Slough Road, and a Wood Stork (!) was found there in October 1990. Stay left, making a jog onto West Twitchell Island Road, and you'll reach Highway 160 just north of Brannan Island State Recreation Area.

If you skip the Delta Loop, Highway 160 is 15 miles west of Interstate 5 via Highway 12. Turn left. Brannan Island State Recreation Area ($10--they don't accept the State Parks annual pass because it is run by a concession; restrooms.) is 3.4 miles south on Highway 160. There is a good mix of trees, water, and open areas. A Tropical Kingbird was found here in February 2017 and Allen's Hummingbirds may breed occasionally here or on the adjacent Sherman Island; they've been found near eucalyptus trees. eBird Sightings

Continuing south on Highway 160, and crossing a drawbridge, it is 6.5 miles south of Highway 12 (and 3.1 miles south of the entrance to the Brannan Island State Recreation Area) to West Sherman Island Road. Turn right, and in 3.5 miles you will reach the Sherman Island County Park ($7 or the Sacramento County Parks annual pass; pit toilets). Along the way and at the park, there are good views of the Sacramento River. Sherman Island is the only portion of Sacramento County where Western Gulls are regular, as are Mew and Bonaparte's gulls. Burrowing Owls have been seen in the fields, especially where the road drops off the levee. At the park, there are patches of riparian scrub, accessed by mowed paths, that once hosted Yellow-breasted Chats, but they have been mostly absent in recent years (campers feed dozens of feral cats and racoons). The cattails and tules host rails and gallinules, and you can get another view into the marsh by taking the road just outside the entrance of the county park south toward a private marina where you can turn around. eBird Sightings

Backtracking to Highway 160, turn right (south) on 160, and then turn left on Sherman Island Cross Road, which is 1.5 miles south of West Sherman Island Road. Don't miss this turn because there isn't another safe place to turn around before reaching the Antioch Bridge (requiring a toll to cross). Follow Sherman Island Cross Road, scanning fields, fence lines, and trees along the way. The fields often host Black-bellied Plovers and Long-billed Curlews. Short-eared Owls may be seen here and along the levee roads at dusk. There is very little parking, so you'll mostly need to stay in or near your vehicle. The road will climb onto the levee, becoming Sherman Island East Levee Rd, and will make a 10-mile loop back to Highway 160 near the drawbridge. There are expansive views of the broad San Joaquin River, though few legitimate places to park, and landowners in the area have been known to confront birders who stop and get out of their cars (no parking signs abound). It's best to do most scanning from your vehicle. There is parking at Eddo's RV Park and marina. Check the trees for migrants or wintering birds as well as the marsh vegetation for rails, etc. From Eddo's, you can walk up or down the little traveled levee road. A Tropical Kingbird frequented a stretch of the East Levee Rd farther upstream during the winter of 2019-20. eBird Sightings

Directions: From Sacramento, head south on Interstate 5 for 32 miles to Highway 12. To reach Sherman Island, head west on Highway 12. Highways 12 and 160 are very busy, but most of the other roads described have modest to little traffic.

Chris Conard

Mather Regional Park is a 64-acre lake surrounded by 158 acres of riparian habitat, upland scrub, seasonal wetland and annual grassland. The Mather Park Land Use Plan designates the north, east and south sides of the Lake as a wildlife preserve. Access may change over time. Presently, the entrance is on the west side of the lake and is known as the Mather Regional Park, which is managed by the County of Sacramento. The area is open to the public for fishing and wildlife viewing from dawn to dusk.

Birding the site: Bird species present year-round include Pied-billed Grebe, American Coot, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Bushtit, Double-crested Cormorant, Common Gallinule, White-tailed Kite, Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk and Great Horned Owl. Regular nesters have included Western Kingbird, Bullock’s Oriole, Ash-throated Flycatcher and Nuttall’s Woodpecker. Winter visitors regularly include Ring-necked Duck, Canvasback and Mallard. Summer sightings bring Green Heron, Black-crowned Night-Heron and American Bittern. Western Tanager, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler and Yellow Warbler can be seen during spring and fall migration. Bird species counts range from 30 in the winter to 50 per day in the spring. Mammals spotted include river otters, muskrats and coyotes. eBird Sightings

To learn more about the accessibility of this location visit Accessible Birding.

Mather Lake Regional Park Trail Map

Directions: Exit Highway 50 at Sunrise Boulevard (14 miles from downtown Sacramento at Interstate 5) and go south for 3.8 miles. Turn right on Douglas Road, drive 1.0 mile, turn left on Eagle’s Nest Road for 0.2 mile, then turn left into the park. There is currently a fee of $7 per vehicle. A $70 annual vehicle pass (also valid for the American River Parkway and other Sacramento County parks) can be purchased from the Sacramento County Department of Parks and Recreation.

Wayne Blunk

Eastern Grasslands and Blue Oak Woodlands

The following five locations include details on great birding areas from fall through spring. They can be combined into a full day of birding, or taken in sections as time allows. The main attraction for most birders is the chance to see winter raptors and Lewis’s Woodpeckers in a relatively natural setting. It must be mentioned that the areas along Scott and White Rock Roads are under extreme development pressure, and the descriptions that follow are of the areas as they exist today. The Sacramento Valley Conservancy spearheaded a multi-partner effort to purchase 4,000 acres through which Latrobe Road travels—Deer Creek Hills. Determined efforts to preserve open space in the southeastern county are vital if we are to continue enjoying these wonderful birding areas.

Note: Scott Road and White Rock Road are experiencing increasingly heavy traffic, so use caution and pull completely off the road when parking

Vast grassland expanses and rolling hills provide excellent opportunities to look for Ferruginous Hawks, Prairie Falcons, and other winter raptors. Payen Road has few cars and allows a leisurely visit.

Birding the site: Near the intersection of White Rock Rd and Payen Rd, the cattle enclosures usually host a large flock of blackbirds. You may be able to find Brown-headed Cowbirds, Tricolored Blackbirds, and, rarely, Yellow-headed Blackbirds among the abundant Red-winged Blackbirds and Brewer’s Blackbirds. eBird Sightings

Payen Road travels south for 1.5 miles past a model airplane staging area and ends at private property. There are few places to pull completely off the road, but since there is very little traffic, it is usually safe to get out of your car.

From mid-October through March, a Prairie Falcon is often present along the road and Ferruginous Hawks may be sitting on the hillsides to the south. Golden Eagles, Rough-legged Hawks, and Merlins are found here, though not quite so dependably. Check the fields and the abandoned railroad culverts for Burrowing Owls. eBird Sightings

Begin the next tour by heading west on White Rock Road for 2.5 miles from Payen Road, and then heading south on Scott Road.

Directions: From the East Bidwell Road exit on Highway 50 near Folsom (23 miles east of downtown Sacramento at Interstate 5), travel south for 1.6 miles to White Rock Road. Turn left and drive east 1.2 miles, and immediately after Placerville Rd goes to the left (north), turn right (south) on Payen Rd.

Chris Conard

This area is primarily open grasslands interspersed with oaks. There are a few small creeks that normally dry up in the summer. The area is of particular interest from the first fall rains until the water dries up (normally in June).  

Birding the site: While traveling through the grasslands, watch the fences for Savannah, Vesper (rare) and Lark Sparrows, House Finches, Purple Finches (uncommon, winter), Western Meadowlarks, Northern Mockingbirds, Horned Larks, American Pipits, Western Bluebirds, Mountain Bluebirds (rare, winter), Western Kingbirds (spring, summer), Say’s Phoebes (winter and increasingly more common year-round), Loggerhead Shrikes, and American Kestrels.

In the open country you should continuously scan rocks, posts, trees and the skies for birds of prey. Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, American Kestrels, and Turkey Vultures are common. In winter, Merlins, American Kestrels, Rough-legged, Red- shouldered, Sharp-shinned, Cooper’s and Ferruginous hawks are occasionally seen, as are Golden and Bald eagles. Prairie Falcons and White-tailed Kites are seen on most trips.

Watch for Black Phoebes near and under bridges (they often nest there). In any of the clusters of trees along the streams during spring and fall, watch for migrating warblers like Black throated Gray, Wilson’s, Nashville, Orange-crowned, and Yellow-rumped.  You may also find Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Golden-crowned Kinglets (rare), White-breasted Nuthatches, Bushtits, Brown Creepers (rare), Bewick’s Wrens, and Oak Titmouse. 

Special finds during winter in this area are Lewis’s Woodpeckers and Phainopeplas. The trees along the entire route should be watched, but especially in the first 2.5 miles from White Rock Road. There are a few dirt pullouts, and a large paved pullout 2.0 miles from White Rock Road. The area by the first bridge should also be watched for Rock Wrens, California and Spotted Towhees. Acorn Woodpeckers are generally common along the entire route, but Nuttall’s and Downy Woodpeckers are also often seen.  Although they have not been seen recently, the marsh on the left, 2.4 miles from White Rock Road, used to have nesting Yellow-headed Blackbirds in the cattails. When there is open water there, you may find American Coots and ducks.

The second large bridge, Carson Creek, is usually excellent when there is a lot of water in the stream. Great Egrets, Great Blue Herons, Greater Yellowlegs, Killdeer and Wilson’s Snipe are seen often. Many spring migrants might be seen: Lazuli Buntings, Cassin’s and Warbling Vireos, Western Tanagers, Wilson’s, Yellow, MacGillivray’s and Nashville Warblers. This has been the most dependable site for Lewis’s Woodpeckers in recent years.

At 5.5 miles, Scott Road crosses Deer Creek. In high water, the stream flows over the road. This area usually has Tree Swallows in spring and summer and is sometimes very productive in migration. Watch for traffic. There is very limited parking.

eBird Sightings - north end, Carson Creek crossing, Deer Creek crossing (Scott Rd--south)

Directions: Head east on Highway 50 to Prairie City Road exit (21 miles from downtown Sacramento at Interstate 5). Turn right and head south until the road dead ends at White Rock Road. Turn left (east) on White Rock Road and continue to Scott Road and turn right (south). Follow this road until it dead ends at Latrobe Road, where you can continue into the next section.

Bruce Swinehart

With a mix of blue oak woodland, savanna, and expansive grasslands, a trip along Latrobe Road has a diversity of habitats and is one of the few areas in Sacramento County to have a real sense of remoteness. Even if the birding is slow, the scenery makes the trip worthwhile. Please note that a vehicle with moderate clearance is required to travel beyond the second crossing of Crevis Creek and four-wheel-drive may be needed for several sections of this road. Also, due to its remoteness, Latrobe Road often serves as an illegal dumping ground and as an occasional shooting gallery. Caution is always advised and going with a friend is wise. Docent-led walks are offered by the Sacramento Valley Conservancy, and a public access plan is in development. For more information, visit Sacramento Valley Conservancy.

Birding the site:  This route starts at the mostly well-graded dirt road at Latrobe Road’s junction with Stone House Road. Within the first mile, much of the species diversity is encountered, so if you have a passenger car and can only access this section, it is still worth a visit. Lewis’s Woodpeckers are often present near this junction and near the second creek crossing, though their numbers vary widely from year to year. At the rocky canyon area at mile 0.4, it is always worth getting out of the car and looking around. This is one of the best places in Sacramento County for Rock Wrens and Rufous-crowned Sparrows away from Folsom Lake.

Typical foothill species such as Western Bluebirds, Lark Sparrows, and Lesser Goldfinches abound. Less commonly, you may encounter a Phainopepla. Lawrence’s Goldfinches occur here irregularly in winter, but typically breed in the area in low numbers. If very lucky, you could find Band-tailed Pigeons, a Hairy Woodpecker, Steller’s Jays, a Greater Roadrunner, or a Northern Pygmy-Owl. Owling attempts may be rewarded with Lesser Nighthawks, Common Poorwill, Western Screech-Owls, and Great Horned Owls. This area is under-birded and has a lot of potential.

The first creek crossing can usually be negotiated by a passenger car. The second crossing, at mile 1.0, is often flooded, but usually passable in a vehicle with moderate clearance and a driver with a little courage. A third creek crossing is a little rougher than the first, but usually poses no serious obstacle. Be careful and know your car’s limits; walking is also an option.

At 2.4 miles, the blue oaks give way to open country with a species mix like that described for Scott Road. Mountain Bluebirds (rare) are sometimes found here. Spring wildflowers are a highlight not to be missed. The road is muddy after a rain and often has large puddles, but it is usually passable. It was along this section that the Central Valley’s first Cassin’s Sparrow was found. eBird Sightings

At the junction at mile 4.0, Michigan Bar Road heads to the right (see the next section). If you go straight ahead, Latrobe Road changes to South Shingle Road (the signs are often down or shot). Continuing straight, you travel through similar open country and cross shortly into El Dorado County on a rough and sometimes muddy route. At mile 6.0 you reach pavement and the advance of development which may continue to sprawl all the way to the county line. At mile 8.0, you reach the other Latrobe Road; the name changes are a source of much confusion. After a left turn and another eight miles, you will reach El Dorado Hills and Highway 50.

Back at mile 4.0, a right turn onto Michigan Bar Road will take you over the Cosumnes River and toward Highway 16 (Jackson Highway). If traveled in reverse, this is an alternate access to the areas above the second crossing of Crevis Creek. See the following section for more details.

Directions: Access 1: From downtown Sacramento (5.3 miles east of Interstate 5), exit Highway 50 at Howe Avenue and head south to Folsom Boulevard. Turn left; then in 0.5 mile, turn right on Jackson Highway (Highway 16). From Folsom Boulevard, it is 13.8 miles to Dillard Road. Continue another 0.8 mile and turn left on Latrobe Road. After 3.3 miles the road becomes dirt at the junction with Stone House Road, which makes a 90-degree bend here, requiring caution to cross it.

Access 2: From the Prairie City Road Exit off of Highway 50 (21 miles from downtown Sacramento at Interstate 5), head south until the road dead ends at White Rock Road. Turn left (east) on White Rock Road, and continue to a right on Scott Road. After 8.0 miles, turn left on Latrobe Road. The description above begins with the dirt road (at the junction with Stone House Road) 0.1 mile east of the Scott Road junction.

Here you find a similar mix of habitats and species as described for Latrobe Road, but with the addition of the Cosumnes River.

Birding the site: The area adjacent to the river has the most to offer. Some of Sacramento County’s infrequent reports of Hairy Woodpeckers, Steller’s Jays, and Band-tailed Pigeons (all rare) are from here. An American Dipper (very rare) has been found here as well, and Lawrence’s Goldfinches are sometimes present. Often none of these species is present, but it is always worth a look.

From the bridge you can look and listen for a Hairy Woodpecker or Steller’s Jay in and around the trees above the residence, which is on the south side. Ducks and Canada Geese are often on the river. Please respect the privacy of the property owner. eBird Sightings

Beyond the river, the road is unpaved and can be muddy after a storm. Shortly, the blue oak woodland gives way to open grassland. Mountain Bluebirds (rare) have been found in the open country along with winter raptors. Vesper Sparrows and Lawrence’s Goldfinches have been seen along this stretch. During fall migration, Common Poorwills and Burrowing Owls have been seen on the road after dark. At mile 4.1 you reach the junction with Latrobe Road described in the previous section. eBird Sightings

Directions: From Sacramento, exit Highway 50 at Howe Avenue (5.3 miles east of Interstate 5) and head south to Folsom Boulevard. Turn left, then in 0.5 mile turn right on Jackson Highway (Highway 16). From Folsom Boulevard, it is 20 miles to Michigan Bar Road. Turn left on Michigan Bar Road (after passing through Rancho Murieta, 6.3 miles east of Dillard Road). Drive 1.2 miles north on Michigan Bar Road to the Cosumnes River. Cross the bridge and park on the far side.

Another open country gem, a drive along Meiss Road can produce winter raptors and a species mix similar to Scott Road. In spring and summer, this area has been fairly reliable for Lesser Nighthawks and Grasshopper Sparrows. Meiss Road typically has little traffic, and the eastern 3.3 miles are unpaved but passable in a passenger car. The road runs 7.7 miles from Dillard Road to Ione Road.

Birding the site: The open country is good for raptors and sparrows in winter. Horned Larks abound. In 2005-2008, three or more Common Nighthawks were regularly seen during spring and summer at dusk about three miles from Dillard Road. Lesser Nighthawks breed near the road and are often seen and heard making their trilling calls at dusk from multiple locations. The most reliable area for Grasshopper Sparrows has been around six miles from Dillard Road. They are often heard singing in the grasslands, and are sometimes seen sitting on the fence or up on the vegetation. eBird Sightings

Directions: From Sacramento, exit Highway 50 at Howe Avenue (5.3 miles east of Interstate 5) and head south to Folsom Boulevard. Turn left, then in 0.5 mile turn right on Jackson Highway (Highway 16). From Folsom Boulevard, it is 13.8 miles to Dillard Road. Turn right on Dillard Road, go 1.4 miles to Meiss Road and turn left. From the eastern end of Meiss Road, turning left, it is 4.0 miles north on Ione Road back to Jackson Highway (only 0.5 mile east of Michigan Bar Road).

Chris Conard

Banner Photo Credit: Costa’s Hummingbird by Daniel Lee Brown