Posted in Northern California Hiking, Natural Wonders, Nature, On The Water February 02, 2023 by

This 430-Acre Riparian Forest Sanctuary In Northern California Is A Birders Dream

The Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary is a birders dream! Owned by the National Audubon Society and managed by the Sacramento Audubon Society, this 430 acre riparian forest and wildlife sanctuary draws hikers, nature lovers, and birders.

Located near the small town of Nicolaus, and just south of Yuba City, this sanctuary offers more than 5 miles of trails and the possibility of many bird sightings.
ejbSF/Flickr
Healthy riparian forests will typically have a wide variety of birds. The forest and grassland also support other wildlife.
When you enter the sanctuary, you’ll find framed maps and information about the area.
Janice Shilling/Google Images
A list of birds in the sanctuary, along with photos and descriptions of their nests is helpful for bird watchers. Birders like the eBird app and website where you can report your latest bird sightings. Birders visiting this sanctuary have seen bald eagles, Peregrine falcons, black crowned night herons, and much more!
More than 190 species of birds have been observed in the sanctuary.
Janice Shilling/Google Images
Before your visit you can view the trail map and parking map online. Through that link you’ll also find a PDF of the Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary Field Guide.
Riparian forests are ecosystems located near water features like rivers, lakes, marshlands, estuaries, etc.
Big Mic/Google Images
Riparian forests like these are not only sanctuaries for birds, but are also helpful if located next to farmland. These forests can filter agricultural runoff and help control flood waters.
Several major waterways and streams run through and nearby Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary– the largest are the Feather River and the Nelson Slough.
Henry Ossentjuk/Google Images
Much of the Sacramento Valley looked like this sanctuary before settlers moved into the area. Take a peek into the past by viewing this remnant of riparian forests.
Bird watching, or birding, became a popular pastime during the height of the pandemic. Birding is still growing in popularity– it’s an enjoyable and relaxing activity that is low cost.
Eric/Google Images
Just bring a pair of binoculars and perhaps a bird book or app to know what you’re looking at, and you’re set!

Dogs are not permitted in the sanctuary so leave your pup at home. To ensure you don’t park on private property, check the parking map when you enter the sanctuary. The sanctuary is open from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily.

Have you visited the Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary? Tell us about your experience in the comments.

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Address: Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary, 15 Laurel Ave, Yuba City, CA 95991, USA