Redwood Region Audubon Society

Birding Hotspots

Eel River Wildlife Area

By: David Fix

To reach this singular and significant tidal wetland (often referred to, through its acronym, as 'Er-wuh'), go south from Eureka on Hwy 101 to Hookton Road. Follow Hookton Road to the west for 4.1 miles, then turn left on a side road, Indianola Res. Rd. (sign down in Sep 98, but marked by a junker car at the intersection). At road's end, another quarter-mile or so, park (hide valuables) and walk westward on a dike to access a large 'east pond' and the expansive open tidal marsh farther to the southwest. This area is administered by California Dept. of Fish and Game.

Another access may be found at 4.6 miles out Hookton Road, where a gated access road leads southward at a right dogleg. Park out of the roadway, hop the gate, and walk around the north and west side of the huge barn one-third mile to the south to access an old levee which offers close-up views of excellent shorebird flats. Note that waterfowl hunting takes place here in season. Beware cattle, and leave all gates as you find them.

Good birds that have been found at ERWA include Garganey, Mongolian Plover, Hudsonian and Bar-tailed godwits, and multiple Ruffs, Sharp-tailed Sandpipers, and Stilt Sandpipers. Red-throated Pipit, and White/Black-backed and Yellow wagtail have also been seen.

Redwood Region Audubon Society
P.O. Box 1054, Eureka, CA 95502
Last updated February 1999