This place is absolutely lovely. This visit we saw great horned owls, sand hill cranes, ibis, many kinds of geese, ring-necked pheasants, jack rabbits, and an abundance of hawks. I hear there are bald eagles around, but we didn't see any of those.
appears to be nothing, but once you drive the loop the birds come alive. Great view points and pull over areas to take pictures.
We drove the loop and saw thousands upon thousands of beautiful birds of all different types. The seemingly endless snow geese were incredible. We spotted many sandhill cranes, egrets, herons, ducks of all kinds, and many, many raptors. I highly recommend visiting this beautiful place.
We wanted to get out of the city and find a little nature, but we only had a few hours. The entrance was well-marked and there is a nice area to park, use the bathroom and look at the map. A nice slow driving loop put a lot of birds in view. We got out on some walking trails and found some other wildlife. Make sure to take some binoculars. Give yourself at least an hour. A great use of taxpayer money!!
Went here in August, so it was hot and dry but even then the birding was good. The time if year probably also explains why we saw no-one else at all. I'd wondered how the driving route could really get you close to the birds, but it has been well thought out. Picked up some good birds like White Pelican, Ibis and a Great-tailed Grackle. Well worth a visit if you are heading past that way.
Other reviewers, who seem to be quite knowledgeable about birds, already posted what types of birds you may expect to find here. You can drive the 5 mile loop very slowly and stop at various look-outs and platforms. You can also take walks here. The refuge looks like a huge lake. You never quite know what you'll find here. Thousands of birds make their home at this refuge during the winter months. I always find it so impressive when a large flock takes off with this loud "whoosh" sound. Bring binoculars and your camera. I usually visit this refuge at least twice a year.
Intense drought throughout region, so not much water and very little wildlife. This place is usually full of waterfowl in winter, which is the best time to visit.
Not much to do in Merced on a Sunday so we drove out to the Refuge. What a wonderful place - if you like birds and quiet moments.
A relaxing slow driving tour to see 1000s of birds in migrating season (Fall Winter Spring ) Or a few birds and other wildlife out of season. The animals are used to people and slow cars so you can get very close. But you must not bother them. Get out and hike a bit too. Free telescopes on 2 piers with info. plates to read. Paper guides available at parking lot. Gate auto locks at dusk. minus-no water to drink, bathroom is "rural"
Go in the winter for optimum sightings. Thousands of Ross Geese, Snow Geese, and Sandhill Cranes. Open from sunrise to sunset only. You have to stay in your vehicle except for one area along the route.