merced national wildlife refuge

StandonZanzibar

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.

470candacec

There is a five mile one way loop that goes through the area. We only saw 1 other vehicle the whole way and saw all kinds of birds. I believe it was the sand hill cranes (100's) jumping and hooting with their strange call, many geese and sand pipers and other shore birds. What a nice break from the highway driving we've done and there is no charge.

348jillt

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.

EBEetal

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.

Izzy3000

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.

nemestrinus

A great place to enjoy a piece of California's Central Valley among a variety of Ducks and other fowl who have been provided this lovely refuge surrounded by farmland. Highly recommended, stop by, watch some birds, and visit with the staff.

guyashby

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!!

5snoooryn

It's worth the eight mile drive outside of town, to witness nature in all her beauty Around November and again in February I take the trip. Hopefully to witness snow geese flying in . One time the ground looked as if snowed. They were nesting on every square inch of water. The photographers were out recording every movement. You could hear a pin drop. If they heard a noise they would all fly off so it was quite. I've been back more that once but nothing as profound, as that one day in November.

gruesome17

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.

932GeoffS

We were visiting San Luis NWR and the staff there said we had to find time to go to Merced NWR as well. It was not on our planned schedule but we changed our plans. It was certainly worth it. If you are interested in birds this is a quite brilliant refuge.

danetta

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"

DougMo

Merced and San Luis Wildlife Refuges are both wonderful for winter/migrating birds. Easy access and the interpretive center at San Luis is nicely done.

Fiona_Imadog

appears to be nothing, but once you drive the loop the birds come alive. Great view points and pull over areas to take pictures.

Photom299

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.

Cali4niahiker

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.