BIRDING at MERRILL CREEK RESERVOIR

Certified Important Bird & Birding Area
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Home of the Scott’s Mountain Hawk Watch

Important Bird Area

Over 275 bird species have been observed at Merrill Creek Reservoir Click Here to Download The MCR Bird Checklist.

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MCR Bald Eagles

In 1999 Merrill Creek Reservoir would become (at that time) only the second nesting location for Bald Eagles in the Northern half of the state. Since then, two nesting pair of Bald Eagles call MCR home. Click Here for more information about the history of Bald Eagles at MCR.

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Merrill Creek Reservior Bald Eagles

“HARMONY 1”

“HARMONY 2”

“MERRILL”

Scott’s Mountain Hawk Watch

For more information about the Scott’s Mountain Hawk Watch at Merrill Creek Reservoir and Watch.
Click Here

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Merrill Creek Reservoir is a wintering location for thousands of Snow Geese each year (Typically, late November through March).

Snow Goose Update
Snow Geese flocks at MCR have not been seen back at the reservoir since 1/24/26 and are no longer consistent daily at MCR

IF present: Best spot at MCR to see them is from the I/O Tower Parking Lot off Fox Farm Road

Accidentals That Have Been Observed at MCR

Pacific Loon (5/9/1992), Western Grebe (1/31/2007), American White Pelican (6/23/2008), Brown Pelican (1/27/2007), Brown Booby (7/12/2016), Anhinga (8/31/2003), Ross’s Goose (1/29/2007), Barnacle Goose (12/3/1998), Eurasian Widgeon (1/15/97 & 2/27/2025), Barrow’s Goldeneye (2/5/2002), Swallow-tailed Kite (8/31/2004), Mississippi Kite (5/15/2005), Swainson’s Hawk (10/31/2002), Gyrfalcon (12/8/2017), Sandhill Crane (10/30/2009), American Golden Plover (9/19/2011), American Avocet (8/04/2010), Willet (8/04/2010), Sanderling (8/23/2012), Red-necked Phalarope (10/6/2010), California Gull (2/11/2009), Sabine’s Gull (10/10/2000), Common Ground Dove (7/18/2008), Snowy Owl (11/19/2011), Rufous Hummingbird (8/26/2009), Western Kingbird (9/22/20), Boreal Chickadee (2/23/2019), Towsend’s Solitaire (10/25/2007), Orange-crowned Warbler (10/17/2007), Yellow-throated Warbler (8/11/2010), Prothonotary Warbler (9/7/2009), Swainson’s Warbler (6/7/2009), Clay-colored Sparrow (7/10/15), Henslow’s Sparrow (11/2/2008), Pine Grosbeak (winter).

MCR Birding Gallery

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of avian life at Merrill Creek Reservoir, where over 277 bird species have been recorded, offering a captivating experience for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore our birding slideshow to witness stunning photographs of these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat, showcasing the diverse beauty that thrives in this certified Important Bird Area. From the majestic Bald Eagles to the charming American Goldfinches, each image brings to life the rich tapestry of wildlife that makes MCR a must-visit destination for all who share a passion for the wonders of nature.