Looking for a Place to stay while visiting Crook County? Check out the Houston Lake B & B Retreat. They give discounted rates to birders (if you mention Chuck Gates or the Birding Site Guide) and can cater some takeout food for an early start. The B & B is on Houston Lake (see below), one of the best places in Crook County for marsh birds like rails, Bittern, and Marsh Wren. To reserve a room, go to the Houston Lake Bed and Breakfast Retreat website.
Birding Locations
PRINEVILLE AREA
Prineville return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001);Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 53” N 120 50’ 50” W
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City Information
Location: Prineville is located 18 miles east of Redmond on Hwy 126. It is 36 miles from Bend, 144 miles from Albany, 148 miles from Portland, 148 miles from Eugene, 151 miles from Salem, 175 miles from Klamath Falls, and 208 miles from Medford Prineville is the largest community in Crook County and is the only community with a variety of services.
Habitat and Birds: The town of Prineville can be productive as a birding location. Eurasian Collared-Doves have become quite common, as have Western Scrub-Jays and Lesser Goldfinches. The neighborhoods between N. 3rd and Lynn Blvd on the south side of town have plenty of fruiting trees and birches for the finches. The north side of town, near the hospital, is another good neighborhood for city birds. In winter, expect good finch numbers and a few Merlin, Sharp-shinned Hawk, and Cooper’s Hawk. In migration, Black-headed Grosbeak, Western Tanager, and Bullock’s Oriole can be found. Summer residents include Rufous Hummingbird, Wood Duck, Osprey, and Cedar Waxwing.
Prineville Cemetery return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 53” N 120 50’ 50” W
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Location: Leave Prineville north on Main Street. Travel just under one mile from the junction of N. Main and N. 3rd St.. A short distance after the railroad tracks the entrance to the cemetery can be seen on the west side of the road.
Habitat and Birds: This area is full of mature conifers and fruiting deciduous trees. Flowering crabapple trees attract a wide variety of migrants in the spring and the resulting fruit entices birds here in the fall and winter. Fall and spring migrants can be abundant at this location and Purple Finches can sometimes be found in winter. Birch trees have produced Pine Siskins, both goldfinches, and even Common Redpolls.
WEST OF PRINEVILLE
Powell Butte return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 B-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-1 geographic coordinates 44 14’ 51” N 121 01’ 04” W
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Location: Hwy 126 between Redmond and Prineville (eight miles east of Redmond or 10 miles west of Prineville). Many roads leave the highway and cross through the agricultural fields.
Habitat and Birds: The agricultural fields hold high numbers of wintering raptors, flocks of blackbirds and sparrows. Near the community center there is a small regular wintering group of Short-eared Owls. To find these, take Rief Road south from Hwy 126 just west of the town of Powell Butte. Check the fields just north of the fire station near the Community Center close to dark. Drive the farmlands in winter for a nice mix of raptors. In spring and summer, patches of sage brush will provide good birding (Brewer's Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, Sage Thrasher, California Quail, and even an occasional Sage Sparrow). Great Horned Owls are very common at night and Barn and Western Screech-Owls are here as well.
Houston Lakes return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-1 geographic coordinates 44 17’ 29” N 120 59’ 30” W
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Location: From Powell Butte (see above), travel north on SW Williams Road for three miles and the road makes a right angle turn to the east. Stay on this road which now becomes Houston Lake Road. Go east for 1.25 miles and you will see the lake. The main lake is on the south side of the road. This is actually referred to as “Little Houston Lake” by the locals. “Big Houston Lake” is completely surrounded by private land and not viewable. “Little Houston Lake” is a private irrigation pond so please bird only from the road. There is a pull-off near the west side of the lake. A new B & B has just opened at this location and might be the best place to stay if you are visiting Crook County. See the link at the top of this page.
Habitat and Birds: In summer this is a great place to see American Bitterns, Virginia Rails, and Sora. Fall migrant waterfowl are abundant and this is a good spot for fall shorebirds (scope needed). Winter raptors are abundant. Waterfowl numbers, including Canada, Snow, and White-fronted Geese and swans build up here in early spring. Depending on water levels, there may be shorebirds present.
Prineville Sewage Ponds return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C- DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 24” N 120 52’ 16” W
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Location: Leave Prineville north on the O’Neil Hwy 370 (leaves Hwy 126 just west of the bridge over the Crooked River) and the main entrance to the ponds is on the north side of the road about 0.5 miles from Hwy 126. You must have permission to visit this site; which can be obtained through ECAS. A combination lock restricts access to the ponds.
Habitat and Birds: Several large ponds here normally have some open “water”, even in the coldest months. These ponds support large numbers of ducks and a variety of shorebirds in the spring and fall. The habitat close to the river is excellent for migrants, sparrows and occasional Short-eared Owls and Black-crowned Night-Herons. This site annually hosts rare birds.
O’Neil Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-1 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 50” N 120 53’ 43” W
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Location: Leave Prineville north on the O’Neil Hwy (leaves Hwy 126 just west of the bridge over the Crooked River). The entire valley is visible from this road to the east up to the junction with Lone Pine Road. There are a few choice pull-outs that offer safe viewing opportunities. This road will eventually take you to Redmond or Terrebonne, depending on which fork you take in the road.
Habitat and Birds: This valley is covered with agricultural fields, marshy lands and rough ground. Wintering raptors hunt this area and large flocks of Canada Geese group throughout the area (occasionally with Tundra Swans and Snow Geese). Golden Eagles are often seen soaring over the rim rock. When flooded, large numbers of ducks and the occasional Great Egret use the temporary pools.
NORTH OF PRINEVILLE
Grizzly Mountain return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-1 geographic coordinates 44 24’ 31” N 120 58’ 48” W (This is the location of the access road, not the top of the mountain)
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Location: Between Madras and Prineville on Hwy 26. From Prineville (junctions of 126 and 26), travel 8.8 miles north on Hwy 26. Turn east on Grizzly Mountain Road This becomes a graded and well-maintained dirt road leading to the communication towers at the summit. The distance to the top is roughly 3.5 miles. This road is often impassible in the winter and early spring. Passenger cars are adequate in summer (bumpy but you can make it) but 4-wheel drive is recommended if there is any chance of snow. This location offers one of the most stunning views in all of Oregon. Any summer visit to Prineville should include a trip up to the top of Grizzly.
Habitat and Birds: Often with the first real snow fall of the autumn, a few Gray Crowned Rosy-Finches can be located close to the summit (rarely Snow Bunting too). Chukar, Dusky Grouse, and Gray Partridge have all been seen on the drive up. On the East side there are extensive pine and fir forests with Northern Pygmy-Owl. The cleared area at the summit is an excellent vantage spot to look for migrating raptors in the spring and fall and holds Mountain Bluebirds and Rock Wrens in the summer. Watch for Calliope Hummingbird, Gray Flycatcher, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and Green-tailed Towhee on the way up.
Barnes Butte Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-2 geographic coordinates 44 20’ 01” N 120 49’ 26” W
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Location: Leave Prineville north on Main St. Go 2.2 miles north of 3rd and Main Street in Prineville, turn east on Barnes Butte Road. Travel one mile east and the reservoir will be on the south side of the road. The main reservoir is viewed from the south side of the road at the base of the butte. This is private land. There is no access and viewing must take place from the road.
Habitat and Birds: A private fishing lake surrounded by marsh, agricultural fields and juniper. The cattail area to the north of the road offers fantastic views of breeding Yellow-headed Blackbird, Virginia Rail, Northern Harrier, and Marsh Wren. The lake holds good numbers of wintering ducks with Bald Eagle, Prairie Falcon, and other raptors in winter. Check the marsh to the north side of the road for Tricolored Blackbird in May.
Woodward Marsh return to the top
DelLorme C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-1 geographic coordinates 44 22’ 12” N 120 55’ 36” W
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Location: From the Junction of 26 and 126 in Prineville, travel 5.1 miles on Hwy 26. Turn north on Woodward Road. The marsh is a 0.25 mile down this road.
Habitat and Birds: This marsh is one of the largest in the county. Marsh birds like Marsh Wren and Harrier are common. The main attraction is the Tricolored Blackbird. They nest here nearly every year in late may and early June.
McCay Creek Loops A and B (Hwy 33 and 27) return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 B,C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-2,3 geographic coordinates 44 22’ 05” N 120 50’ 47” W (Beginning of the loop)
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Location: Leave Prineville north on Main St. Travel three miles from the edge of town and N. Main becomes McCay Road (Forest Road 33). Stay on Hwy 33 and follow it until the pavement ends (the paved road becomes Hwy 27). This is approximately 25 miles. This road takes you into the Ochoco Mountains and stops can be made at your leisure. There are two big loops you can take here. Consult the link above and carry a good U.S. Forest Service map so you don’t get lost. It’s easiest just to go up this road until the pavement ends and then turn around and return the same way. There are many areas of insect-killed forest and forest clear-cuts. Side roads are abundant but a forest service map is necessary if you get too far off the pavement.
Habitat and Birds: Pine forest, that includes mixed conifer forest and some riparian areas. Mountain birds are abundant here. Northern Pygmy-Owl, Northern Saw-whet, and Flammulated Owl are here in summer. Mountain Quail can be found infrequently along with Ruffed and Dusky Grouse. There is a large burn at the top (although it produces some woodpeckers, it is getting old and is not as productive as it once was). This is often the most productive Crook County mountain route in the summer.
EAST OF PRINEVILLE
Ochoco Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 17’ 58” N 120 43’ 30” W (Ochoco Dam on west side of the lake)
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Location: Start from the center of Prineville (N. 3rd and N. Main). The reservoir dam is off Hwy 126 on the south side of the road 6.1 miles from N. 3rd and N. Main in Prineville. It can be viewed from several pullouts. Check out the county park that offers views of the lake, restrooms, and an area of juniper forest that often has Red-breasted Sapsucker in the winter. The best viewing is on the eastern end of the reservoir. Spring brings water levels right up to the road. Fall water levels drop and allow for good shore-birding.
Habitat and Birds: A large lake with surrounding rim rock. The reservoir can hold good numbers of waterfowl, including Common Loon and Western Grebe. Clark's Grebes occasionally nest. In the summer, California Gull numbers build up, along with Caspian Terns, Great-blue Herons, and American White Pelicans. As water levels drop, shorebirds can be seen (at some distance) on the mud flats. Scan the rimrock for Golden and Bald Eagles.
Mill Creek Road return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-3 geographic coordinates 44 19’ 04” N 120 39’ 54” W (Junction of Hwy 26 and Mill Cr. Road)
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Location: Nine miles east of Prineville on Hwy 26 and 2.9 miles east of the Ochoco Reservoir Dam (see directions above), is Mill Creek Road. This road is flanked by private property on all sides but transitions into the Ochoco National Forest and is good for forest birds. This road is 10 miles long and ends at Wildcat Campground. If you travel the whole length of this road, you can't miss Stein’s Pillar. This rock formation is one of the most spectacular in Central Oregon. A good side road runs west just as the pavement ends at 5.3 miles. A good loop can be made if, instead of going back into Wildcat Campground, you continue on the main road into the mountains. This is Forest Road 33 and will take you back to Prineville after a productive 20-mile drive.
Habitat and Birds: The road follows Mill Creek as it comes out of the Ochoco Mountains. Farmland straddles the river for several miles and junipers can by found to the west. The pavement ends after a few miles but the dirt road is well maintained. Bushtits and Ash-throated Flycatchers like the junipers near the beginning of this road. Pygmy Nuthatches and Western Bluebirds prefer the middle sections. White-headed Woodpecker, Red Crossbill, Winter Wren, and Cassin’s Finch are common. Check the bridges for American Dipper. Northern Pygmy-Owl can often be found with a little “tooting”. This is one of the best places in the county to find Calliope Hummingbird.
Wildcat Campground return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-3 geographic coordinates 44 26’ 23” N 120 34’ 49” W
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Location: At the end of Mill Cr. Road 10 miles north of the Junction of Hwy 26 and Mill Cr. Road (see directions for Mill Cr. Road above).
Habitat and Birds: This is one of the most accessible locations for birding the Ochoco Mountains. This campground is primitive with no electrical hookups. Well ventilated pit toilets are present and the birding is good. From the north end of the campground, you can take a trail into the Wildcat Wilderness. Mountain Quail can sometimes be found here and the riparian area along the trail is good for passerines like Black-headed Grosbeak and MacGillivray’s Warbler. Veery and Swainson’s Thrush have been seen here and just about any Central Oregon woodpecker could show up. Winter Wrens sing from inside the campground and American Dipper are often nesting under the bridge.
Ochoco Ranger Station return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-4 geographic coordinates 44 23’ 48” N 120 25’ 35” W
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Location: Leave Prineville east on Hwy 26. Go 10.3 miles past the dam at Ochoco Reservoir. Turn right on the 23 Road and go east nine miles and follow the signs to the ranger station. Though the ranger station itself has closed, the campground is still open and camping is available at about $10 per night. Sites are limited.
Habitat and Birds: Riparian areas and mixed conifers. This area holds all the common forest birds and has regularly had Veery in summer. Hammonds and Dusky Flycatchers can both be found here and the meadow near the station is good for Lazuli Bunting and Calliope Hummingbird Northern Pygmy-Owls frequent the pines as do White-headed Woodpeckers and Red-naped Sapsuckers. Listen for the chattering of Red Crossbills.
Walton Lake return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-4 geographic coordinates 44 26’ 10” N 120 20’ 04” W
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Location: From Prineville, go 25 miles east to Ochoco Ranger Station (see above). Just past the ranger station, turn left (north) and go seven miles NE of Ranger Station on Forest Road #22. Look for the signs.
Habitat and Birds: Lake surrounded by forest. This is an excellent area for woodpeckers, Northern Pygmy-Owl and Grouse (both Ruffed and Dusky). All the forest birds are present here. Hermit Thrushes nest here and Townsend’s Warblers are abundant. The campground can be good but is often full of humans. The roads adjacent to the lake provide the best birding. County listers beware: this lake is right on the border with Wheeler County.
Independent Mine and Lookout Mountain Trail return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-4 geographic coordinates 44 26’ 10” N 120 20’ 04” W
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Location: From Prineville, go 25 miles east to Ochoco Ranger Station (see above), from Ochoco Ranger Station, take Road 42 6.5 miles to the mine entrance. Watch for the sign on your right. Turn onto the dirt road that accesses the mine. This road is closed in winter. The mine is an old cinnabar mine and the road is blocked to the mine itself. A 0.25-mile hike to the mine can be productive and there is a short trail that runs out and back east of the mine. Continue on birding past the mine on the road and you will come to the Lookout Mountain Trailhead. This 4-mile trail leads to the highest parts of the Ochocos and has produced Pine Grosbeaks (only once), Dusky Grouse, and Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch (look for snow fields).
Habitat and Birds: Many forest birds are common here. Lincoln's Sparrow nests here as does Warbling Vireo. Woodpeckers and finches can be found. Pileated Woodpecker and Ruffed Grouse are often heard at the junction of road 42 and the Independent Mine Road.
Big Summit Prairie return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-5 geographic coordinates 44 20’ 57” N 120 16’ 21” W (West Edge)
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Location: Take Hwy 26 East from Prineville, approximately 18 miles and turn right onto County Road 123. Continue another eight miles to Ochoco Ranger Station, then just past the station, bear right at the “Y” on FS Road 42. Continue on Road 42 to Big Summit Prairie (about 6 miles). The map looks pretty confusing but just stay on the pavement and you will come to Big Summit Prairie. Most of the prairie is private land but it can be viewed from the road. Don’t cross any fences and you should be fine. With a good Forest Service map, you can take several good side roads and explore. Make sure you take the Round Prairie Road south of Big Summit Prairie. This road has several Aspen groves that are great for woodpeckers in late spring and early summer (Williamson's and Red-naped Sapsucker are easy to find in these groves as are Mountain Bluebirds).
Habitat and Birds: Forest and grassland. This is an excellent area for butterflies, wildflowers, and birds. The prairie blooms in spring and the wildflower show is spectacular. Sandhill Cranes can be scoped from the road and several species of woodpeckers can be found along the prairie edges. Many pine-loving bird species are abundant. Upland Sandpipers used to frequent this prairie but have not been seen for decades. Listen for the ubiquitous Brown Creeper.
Eagle Rock return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 D- DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-3 geographic coordinates 44 11’ 40” N 120 38’ 58” W
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Location: Leave Prineville south on Combs Flat Rd at the east end of Prineville. This becomes the Paulina Hwy 380. After about 12 miles the road descends down a hill toward the Crooked River. Midway down, look for the large crag/ pinnacle on the west side of the road. This is Eagle Rock.
Habitat and Birds: Rocky crag and juniper forest. White throated Swifts breed here. Bullock's Orioles and Canyon Wrens are vocal in summer, and Mountain Quail are sometimes heard here year round. Between March and October, you can almost always find a Say’s Phoebe here. While descending along the Paulina Hwy toward Eagle Rock, stop and listen for Green-tailed Towhee on the hillsides. You can hear Common Poorwill here in the evenings.
North Shore Rd and Prineville Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 D-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-3 geographic coordinates 44 10’ 42” N 120 37’ 32” W (Prineville Reservoir State Park is 44 07’ 44” N 120 43’ 25” W)
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Location: Leave Prineville south on Combs Flat Road at the east end of Prineville. This becomes the Paulina Hwy380. From the junction of Combs Flat Road and Hwy 126, it’s 16.3 miles to North Shore Road After about 12 miles the road descends down a hill. Past Eagle Rock, at the base of the hill, an un-graded road takes off to the right (west). This is North Shore Road. It can become difficult to cross after heavy rains due to mud. The road is closed from mid Nov – mid April. Prineville Reservoir State Park, further to the west, can be accessed either by following North Shore Road or by taking the Juniper Canyon Road off Combs Flat Road just south of Prineville (follow the signs). Take the paved road to Jasper Point State Park and Prineville Reservoir State Park. Both can yield good birds in winter.
Habitat and Birds: Open water, riparian scrub and juniper. This is simply one of the best places to bird in Crook County (except in winter and early spring until the willows leaf out). The riparian area close to the Crooked River is excellent for migrants, and often has a few Blue-gray Gnatcatchers in early August. Large numbers of warblers and flycatchers can be found along the river (North Shore Road). In the fall, Long-eared Owls roost in the willows (they are actually here year-round), and you might find Black-crowned Night-Herons, White-faced Ibis, American White Pelican, and many shorebirds. In October large numbers of Sparrows and American Pipits can be found. North Shore Road is an area that has produced some rare birds and has great potential. The lake often hosts Common and Pacific Loons and good numbers of ducks in late fall. Check with the camp host at Prineville Reservoir and they will tell you about the nesting Great Horned Owls. Prineville Reservoir is good for waxwings and Red-breasted Sapsuckers in winter.
Gutierrez Ranch return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 D-4 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-5 geographic coordinates 44 06’ 53” N 120 08’ 42” W
Location: This is off the Paulina Hwy between Post and Paulina. This is a private ranch and requires a guided tour with Chuck Gates who is the only local birder with access.
Habitat and Birds: This is a prime wetland habitat with extensive shallow pools and flats. Large numbers of geese and ducks are found year round and huge flocks of shorebirds (especially phalaropes) are there during migration. Raptors include Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks. Greater Sage-Grouse, Black-necked Stilts, American Avocets, Willets, Sandhill Cranes, and Eastern Kingbirds breed here. Good numbers of Brewers, Lark and Vesper Sparrows can also be found. Many of the rare birds found in this county have come from here. It’s considered by most to be the best birding location in the county. Once again, don’t forget that this is private land and access is prohibited without Chuck Gates along.
Paulina and Paulina Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 D-5 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77 E,F-6 geographic coordinates 44 08’ 00” N 119 57’ 44” W (Paulina) Lat & Long 44° 09’ 39” N 119° 59’ 23” W (Paulina Valley)
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Location: This is located in the far eastern part of the county. From Prineville, take Combs Flat Road SE out of town. This road becomes Oregon Road 380 but the locals call it the Paulina Highway. Travel 57 miles to Paulina. To access Paulina Valley, go north out of Paulina (there’s only one dirt road) from the Paulina Store. Cross Road 380 and continue on the dirt road as it swings to the east. This road will climb up over a bluff. From the top, you can see Rabbit Valley Reservoir to the west and Paulina Valley Reservoir to the north. Rabbit Valley Reservoir is inaccessible (see Gutierrez Ranch). Take the dirt road down into Paulina Valley. This road is a public road but it travels through a private ranch and the reservoir is on private property. Please bird from the road.
Habitat and Birds: Check out the small community of Paulina for migrants and winter sparrows. Paulina Valley is the main destination here. The habitat and birds are similar to Gutierrez Ranch in the spring. On both sides of the road, the land is private so you must stay on the road. Black Terns are common in summer and Burrowing Owls can occasionally be seen. Shrikes are found year round and waterfowl are abundant in spring. Take a spotting scope for Paulina Valley Reservoir. This is a great spot in the spring and early summer for waders and Bald Eagles. The reservoir dries up in mid- summer and early fall, so it is not productive until spring.
Rager Ranger Station return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 C-5 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77 E-7 geographic coordinates 44 13’ 58” N 119 44’ 10” W
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Location: From Paulina, continue on Road 380 to Beaver Creek Road for 3.5 miles. Turn left on Beaver Creek and drive 7.5 miles to a fork in the road. Take the right fork (Road 58) and follow the signs to Rager. There are many access points and trails to the forest from here. It is possible to make a circular trip back to Paulina via the 135 Road along the north fork of Bear Creek (Puett Road). From Puett Road about two miles east of Beaver Creek Road, watch for a yellow farm house that is north of the road. Between the road and the yellow farm house, look for Bobolinks that nest here every year. These birds are 300 yards away, so a scope is needed.
Habitat and Birds: The area close to the ranger district has forested areas and riparian vegetation. Wild Turkeys often walk through the housing unit area. Check the feeders. This area has huge potential but is rarely visited. It is good for forest birds and is accessible year round. Check the riparian areas for MacGillivray’s Warbler and listen for Sora in the cattails. Make sure you take Puett Road on your return trip. Puett Road is very good in spring with lots of waterfowl and good sagebrush associated species. Greater Sage-Grouse are sometimes seen from the road.
Antelope Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 D-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77 F-4 geographic coordinates 44 00’ 13” N 120 23’ 31” W
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Location: Leave the Paulina Hwy between Post and Paulina and turn south on Pine Creek Road (Road 17). Travel 11.5 miles and turn left on Forest Road 1700-600. Then go 0.5 mile to the reservoir (following the signs).
Habitat and Birds: You pass through the Maury Mountains to get to the reservoir, which can hold shorebirds and ducks. The road to the reservoir is better for birding than the reservoir itself. Conifer forest birds can be found at every stop. Northern Pygmy-Owls and Northern Goshawks are here as well as all three nuthatches and lots of woodpeckers.
SOUTH OF PRINEVILLE
Crooked River Hwy 27 return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 D-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 17’ 20” N 120 50’ 32” W (north end near Prineville)
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Location: Leave Prineville south on Main Street. This becomes the Crooked River Hwy 27 and joins with Highway 20 45 miles to the south. The road becomes gravel after about 30 miles but is well maintained.
Habitat and Birds: Juniper forest and canyons. The first leg of this road (from Prineville) travels through the spectacular Crooked River Canyon. Canyon Wren, Chukar, and Rock Wren are found here. The riparian areas along this river can be very productive during migration. Lazuli Bunting and Yellow-breasted Chat nest in these areas and Golden Eagles nest on the cliffs above. Prairie Falcons and Western Screech-Owls also nest here. In winter, the canyon is a good place to find Northern Saw-Whet Owls that use the canyon for shelter. Lazuli Bunting and Yellow Warblers are everywhere in the summer months. Prineville Reservoir can be seen from the dam producing views of waterfowl. Once you climb out of the canyon, you will enter sagebrush-juniper steppe. Gray Flycatchers, Black-throated Gray Warblers, and Ash-throated Flycatchers are here in summer. Townsend's Solitaires and American Robins are the dominate birds in winter. Near the junction of Hwy 20, look and listen for sagebrush-associated species like Sage Thrasher and Sage Sparrow.
Looking for a Place to stay while visiting Crook County? Check out the Houston Lake B & B Retreat. They give discounted rates to birders (if you mention Chuck Gates or the Birding Site Guide) and can cater some takeout food for an early start. The B & B is on Houston Lake (see below), one of the best places in Crook County for marsh birds like rails, Bittern, and Marsh Wren. To reserve a room, go to the Houston Lake Bed and Breakfast Retreat website.
Birding Locations
PRINEVILLE AREA
Prineville return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001);Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 53” N 120 50’ 50” W
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City Information
Location: Prineville is located 18 miles east of Redmond on Hwy 126. It is 36 miles from Bend, 144 miles from Albany, 148 miles from Portland, 148 miles from Eugene, 151 miles from Salem, 175 miles from Klamath Falls, and 208 miles from Medford Prineville is the largest community in Crook County and is the only community with a variety of services.
Habitat and Birds: The town of Prineville can be productive as a birding location. Eurasian Collared-Doves have become quite common, as have Western Scrub-Jays and Lesser Goldfinches. The neighborhoods between N. 3rd and Lynn Blvd on the south side of town have plenty of fruiting trees and birches for the finches. The north side of town, near the hospital, is another good neighborhood for city birds. In winter, expect good finch numbers and a few Merlin, Sharp-shinned Hawk, and Cooper’s Hawk. In migration, Black-headed Grosbeak, Western Tanager, and Bullock’s Oriole can be found. Summer residents include Rufous Hummingbird, Wood Duck, Osprey, and Cedar Waxwing.
Prineville Cemetery return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 53” N 120 50’ 50” W
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Location: Leave Prineville north on Main Street. Travel just under one mile from the junction of N. Main and N. 3rd St.. A short distance after the railroad tracks the entrance to the cemetery can be seen on the west side of the road.
Habitat and Birds: This area is full of mature conifers and fruiting deciduous trees. Flowering crabapple trees attract a wide variety of migrants in the spring and the resulting fruit entices birds here in the fall and winter. Fall and spring migrants can be abundant at this location and Purple Finches can sometimes be found in winter. Birch trees have produced Pine Siskins, both goldfinches, and even Common Redpolls.
WEST OF PRINEVILLE
Powell Butte return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 B-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-1 geographic coordinates 44 14’ 51” N 121 01’ 04” W
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Location: Hwy 126 between Redmond and Prineville (eight miles east of Redmond or 10 miles west of Prineville). Many roads leave the highway and cross through the agricultural fields.
Habitat and Birds: The agricultural fields hold high numbers of wintering raptors, flocks of blackbirds and sparrows. Near the community center there is a small regular wintering group of Short-eared Owls. To find these, take Rief Road south from Hwy 126 just west of the town of Powell Butte. Check the fields just north of the fire station near the Community Center close to dark. Drive the farmlands in winter for a nice mix of raptors. In spring and summer, patches of sage brush will provide good birding (Brewer's Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, Sage Thrasher, California Quail, and even an occasional Sage Sparrow). Great Horned Owls are very common at night and Barn and Western Screech-Owls are here as well.
Houston Lakes return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-1 geographic coordinates 44 17’ 29” N 120 59’ 30” W
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Location: From Powell Butte (see above), travel north on SW Williams Road for three miles and the road makes a right angle turn to the east. Stay on this road which now becomes Houston Lake Road. Go east for 1.25 miles and you will see the lake. The main lake is on the south side of the road. This is actually referred to as “Little Houston Lake” by the locals. “Big Houston Lake” is completely surrounded by private land and not viewable. “Little Houston Lake” is a private irrigation pond so please bird only from the road. There is a pull-off near the west side of the lake. A new B & B has just opened at this location and might be the best place to stay if you are visiting Crook County. See the link at the top of this page.
Habitat and Birds: In summer this is a great place to see American Bitterns, Virginia Rails, and Sora. Fall migrant waterfowl are abundant and this is a good spot for fall shorebirds (scope needed). Winter raptors are abundant. Waterfowl numbers, including Canada, Snow, and White-fronted Geese and swans build up here in early spring. Depending on water levels, there may be shorebirds present.
Prineville Sewage Ponds return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C- DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 24” N 120 52’ 16” W
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Location: Leave Prineville north on the O’Neil Hwy 370 (leaves Hwy 126 just west of the bridge over the Crooked River) and the main entrance to the ponds is on the north side of the road about 0.5 miles from Hwy 126. You must have permission to visit this site; which can be obtained through ECAS. A combination lock restricts access to the ponds.
Habitat and Birds: Several large ponds here normally have some open “water”, even in the coldest months. These ponds support large numbers of ducks and a variety of shorebirds in the spring and fall. The habitat close to the river is excellent for migrants, sparrows and occasional Short-eared Owls and Black-crowned Night-Herons. This site annually hosts rare birds.
O’Neil Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-1 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 50” N 120 53’ 43” W
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Location: Leave Prineville north on the O’Neil Hwy (leaves Hwy 126 just west of the bridge over the Crooked River). The entire valley is visible from this road to the east up to the junction with Lone Pine Road. There are a few choice pull-outs that offer safe viewing opportunities. This road will eventually take you to Redmond or Terrebonne, depending on which fork you take in the road.
Habitat and Birds: This valley is covered with agricultural fields, marshy lands and rough ground. Wintering raptors hunt this area and large flocks of Canada Geese group throughout the area (occasionally with Tundra Swans and Snow Geese). Golden Eagles are often seen soaring over the rim rock. When flooded, large numbers of ducks and the occasional Great Egret use the temporary pools.
NORTH OF PRINEVILLE
Grizzly Mountain return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-1 geographic coordinates 44 24’ 31” N 120 58’ 48” W (This is the location of the access road, not the top of the mountain)
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Location: Between Madras and Prineville on Hwy 26. From Prineville (junctions of 126 and 26), travel 8.8 miles north on Hwy 26. Turn east on Grizzly Mountain Road This becomes a graded and well-maintained dirt road leading to the communication towers at the summit. The distance to the top is roughly 3.5 miles. This road is often impassible in the winter and early spring. Passenger cars are adequate in summer (bumpy but you can make it) but 4-wheel drive is recommended if there is any chance of snow. This location offers one of the most stunning views in all of Oregon. Any summer visit to Prineville should include a trip up to the top of Grizzly.
Habitat and Birds: Often with the first real snow fall of the autumn, a few Gray Crowned Rosy-Finches can be located close to the summit (rarely Snow Bunting too). Chukar, Dusky Grouse, and Gray Partridge have all been seen on the drive up. On the East side there are extensive pine and fir forests with Northern Pygmy-Owl. The cleared area at the summit is an excellent vantage spot to look for migrating raptors in the spring and fall and holds Mountain Bluebirds and Rock Wrens in the summer. Watch for Calliope Hummingbird, Gray Flycatcher, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and Green-tailed Towhee on the way up.
Barnes Butte Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-2 geographic coordinates 44 20’ 01” N 120 49’ 26” W
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Location: Leave Prineville north on Main St. Go 2.2 miles north of 3rd and Main Street in Prineville, turn east on Barnes Butte Road. Travel one mile east and the reservoir will be on the south side of the road. The main reservoir is viewed from the south side of the road at the base of the butte. This is private land. There is no access and viewing must take place from the road.
Habitat and Birds: A private fishing lake surrounded by marsh, agricultural fields and juniper. The cattail area to the north of the road offers fantastic views of breeding Yellow-headed Blackbird, Virginia Rail, Northern Harrier, and Marsh Wren. The lake holds good numbers of wintering ducks with Bald Eagle, Prairie Falcon, and other raptors in winter. Check the marsh to the north side of the road for Tricolored Blackbird in May.
Woodward Marsh return to the top
DelLorme C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-1 geographic coordinates 44 22’ 12” N 120 55’ 36” W
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Location: From the Junction of 26 and 126 in Prineville, travel 5.1 miles on Hwy 26. Turn north on Woodward Road. The marsh is a 0.25 mile down this road.
Habitat and Birds: This marsh is one of the largest in the county. Marsh birds like Marsh Wren and Harrier are common. The main attraction is the Tricolored Blackbird. They nest here nearly every year in late may and early June.
McCay Creek Loops A and B (Hwy 33 and 27) return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 B,C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-2,3 geographic coordinates 44 22’ 05” N 120 50’ 47” W (Beginning of the loop)
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Location: Leave Prineville north on Main St. Travel three miles from the edge of town and N. Main becomes McCay Road (Forest Road 33). Stay on Hwy 33 and follow it until the pavement ends (the paved road becomes Hwy 27). This is approximately 25 miles. This road takes you into the Ochoco Mountains and stops can be made at your leisure. There are two big loops you can take here. Consult the link above and carry a good U.S. Forest Service map so you don’t get lost. It’s easiest just to go up this road until the pavement ends and then turn around and return the same way. There are many areas of insect-killed forest and forest clear-cuts. Side roads are abundant but a forest service map is necessary if you get too far off the pavement.
Habitat and Birds: Pine forest, that includes mixed conifer forest and some riparian areas. Mountain birds are abundant here. Northern Pygmy-Owl, Northern Saw-whet, and Flammulated Owl are here in summer. Mountain Quail can be found infrequently along with Ruffed and Dusky Grouse. There is a large burn at the top (although it produces some woodpeckers, it is getting old and is not as productive as it once was). This is often the most productive Crook County mountain route in the summer.
EAST OF PRINEVILLE
Ochoco Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 17’ 58” N 120 43’ 30” W (Ochoco Dam on west side of the lake)
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Location: Start from the center of Prineville (N. 3rd and N. Main). The reservoir dam is off Hwy 126 on the south side of the road 6.1 miles from N. 3rd and N. Main in Prineville. It can be viewed from several pullouts. Check out the county park that offers views of the lake, restrooms, and an area of juniper forest that often has Red-breasted Sapsucker in the winter. The best viewing is on the eastern end of the reservoir. Spring brings water levels right up to the road. Fall water levels drop and allow for good shore-birding.
Habitat and Birds: A large lake with surrounding rim rock. The reservoir can hold good numbers of waterfowl, including Common Loon and Western Grebe. Clark's Grebes occasionally nest. In the summer, California Gull numbers build up, along with Caspian Terns, Great-blue Herons, and American White Pelicans. As water levels drop, shorebirds can be seen (at some distance) on the mud flats. Scan the rimrock for Golden and Bald Eagles.
Mill Creek Road return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-3 geographic coordinates 44 19’ 04” N 120 39’ 54” W (Junction of Hwy 26 and Mill Cr. Road)
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Location: Nine miles east of Prineville on Hwy 26 and 2.9 miles east of the Ochoco Reservoir Dam (see directions above), is Mill Creek Road. This road is flanked by private property on all sides but transitions into the Ochoco National Forest and is good for forest birds. This road is 10 miles long and ends at Wildcat Campground. If you travel the whole length of this road, you can't miss Stein’s Pillar. This rock formation is one of the most spectacular in Central Oregon. A good side road runs west just as the pavement ends at 5.3 miles. A good loop can be made if, instead of going back into Wildcat Campground, you continue on the main road into the mountains. This is Forest Road 33 and will take you back to Prineville after a productive 20-mile drive.
Habitat and Birds: The road follows Mill Creek as it comes out of the Ochoco Mountains. Farmland straddles the river for several miles and junipers can by found to the west. The pavement ends after a few miles but the dirt road is well maintained. Bushtits and Ash-throated Flycatchers like the junipers near the beginning of this road. Pygmy Nuthatches and Western Bluebirds prefer the middle sections. White-headed Woodpecker, Red Crossbill, Winter Wren, and Cassin’s Finch are common. Check the bridges for American Dipper. Northern Pygmy-Owl can often be found with a little “tooting”. This is one of the best places in the county to find Calliope Hummingbird.
Wildcat Campground return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-3 geographic coordinates 44 26’ 23” N 120 34’ 49” W
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Location: At the end of Mill Cr. Road 10 miles north of the Junction of Hwy 26 and Mill Cr. Road (see directions for Mill Cr. Road above).
Habitat and Birds: This is one of the most accessible locations for birding the Ochoco Mountains. This campground is primitive with no electrical hookups. Well ventilated pit toilets are present and the birding is good. From the north end of the campground, you can take a trail into the Wildcat Wilderness. Mountain Quail can sometimes be found here and the riparian area along the trail is good for passerines like Black-headed Grosbeak and MacGillivray’s Warbler. Veery and Swainson’s Thrush have been seen here and just about any Central Oregon woodpecker could show up. Winter Wrens sing from inside the campground and American Dipper are often nesting under the bridge.
Ochoco Ranger Station return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-4 geographic coordinates 44 23’ 48” N 120 25’ 35” W
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Location: Leave Prineville east on Hwy 26. Go 10.3 miles past the dam at Ochoco Reservoir. Turn right on the 23 Road and go east nine miles and follow the signs to the ranger station. Though the ranger station itself has closed, the campground is still open and camping is available at about $10 per night. Sites are limited.
Habitat and Birds: Riparian areas and mixed conifers. This area holds all the common forest birds and has regularly had Veery in summer. Hammonds and Dusky Flycatchers can both be found here and the meadow near the station is good for Lazuli Bunting and Calliope Hummingbird Northern Pygmy-Owls frequent the pines as do White-headed Woodpeckers and Red-naped Sapsuckers. Listen for the chattering of Red Crossbills.
Walton Lake return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-4 geographic coordinates 44 26’ 10” N 120 20’ 04” W
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Location: From Prineville, go 25 miles east to Ochoco Ranger Station (see above). Just past the ranger station, turn left (north) and go seven miles NE of Ranger Station on Forest Road #22. Look for the signs.
Habitat and Birds: Lake surrounded by forest. This is an excellent area for woodpeckers, Northern Pygmy-Owl and Grouse (both Ruffed and Dusky). All the forest birds are present here. Hermit Thrushes nest here and Townsend’s Warblers are abundant. The campground can be good but is often full of humans. The roads adjacent to the lake provide the best birding. County listers beware: this lake is right on the border with Wheeler County.
Independent Mine and Lookout Mountain Trail return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-4 geographic coordinates 44 26’ 10” N 120 20’ 04” W
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Location: From Prineville, go 25 miles east to Ochoco Ranger Station (see above), from Ochoco Ranger Station, take Road 42 6.5 miles to the mine entrance. Watch for the sign on your right. Turn onto the dirt road that accesses the mine. This road is closed in winter. The mine is an old cinnabar mine and the road is blocked to the mine itself. A 0.25-mile hike to the mine can be productive and there is a short trail that runs out and back east of the mine. Continue on birding past the mine on the road and you will come to the Lookout Mountain Trailhead. This 4-mile trail leads to the highest parts of the Ochocos and has produced Pine Grosbeaks (only once), Dusky Grouse, and Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch (look for snow fields).
Habitat and Birds: Many forest birds are common here. Lincoln's Sparrow nests here as does Warbling Vireo. Woodpeckers and finches can be found. Pileated Woodpecker and Ruffed Grouse are often heard at the junction of road 42 and the Independent Mine Road.
Big Summit Prairie return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 C-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 D-5 geographic coordinates 44 20’ 57” N 120 16’ 21” W (West Edge)
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Location: Take Hwy 26 East from Prineville, approximately 18 miles and turn right onto County Road 123. Continue another eight miles to Ochoco Ranger Station, then just past the station, bear right at the “Y” on FS Road 42. Continue on Road 42 to Big Summit Prairie (about 6 miles). The map looks pretty confusing but just stay on the pavement and you will come to Big Summit Prairie. Most of the prairie is private land but it can be viewed from the road. Don’t cross any fences and you should be fine. With a good Forest Service map, you can take several good side roads and explore. Make sure you take the Round Prairie Road south of Big Summit Prairie. This road has several Aspen groves that are great for woodpeckers in late spring and early summer (Williamson's and Red-naped Sapsucker are easy to find in these groves as are Mountain Bluebirds).
Habitat and Birds: Forest and grassland. This is an excellent area for butterflies, wildflowers, and birds. The prairie blooms in spring and the wildflower show is spectacular. Sandhill Cranes can be scoped from the road and several species of woodpeckers can be found along the prairie edges. Many pine-loving bird species are abundant. Upland Sandpipers used to frequent this prairie but have not been seen for decades. Listen for the ubiquitous Brown Creeper.
Eagle Rock return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 D- DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-3 geographic coordinates 44 11’ 40” N 120 38’ 58” W
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Location: Leave Prineville south on Combs Flat Rd at the east end of Prineville. This becomes the Paulina Hwy 380. After about 12 miles the road descends down a hill toward the Crooked River. Midway down, look for the large crag/ pinnacle on the west side of the road. This is Eagle Rock.
Habitat and Birds: Rocky crag and juniper forest. White throated Swifts breed here. Bullock's Orioles and Canyon Wrens are vocal in summer, and Mountain Quail are sometimes heard here year round. Between March and October, you can almost always find a Say’s Phoebe here. While descending along the Paulina Hwy toward Eagle Rock, stop and listen for Green-tailed Towhee on the hillsides. You can hear Common Poorwill here in the evenings.
North Shore Rd and Prineville Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 D-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-3 geographic coordinates 44 10’ 42” N 120 37’ 32” W (Prineville Reservoir State Park is 44 07’ 44” N 120 43’ 25” W)
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Location: Leave Prineville south on Combs Flat Road at the east end of Prineville. This becomes the Paulina Hwy380. From the junction of Combs Flat Road and Hwy 126, it’s 16.3 miles to North Shore Road After about 12 miles the road descends down a hill. Past Eagle Rock, at the base of the hill, an un-graded road takes off to the right (west). This is North Shore Road. It can become difficult to cross after heavy rains due to mud. The road is closed from mid Nov – mid April. Prineville Reservoir State Park, further to the west, can be accessed either by following North Shore Road or by taking the Juniper Canyon Road off Combs Flat Road just south of Prineville (follow the signs). Take the paved road to Jasper Point State Park and Prineville Reservoir State Park. Both can yield good birds in winter.
Habitat and Birds: Open water, riparian scrub and juniper. This is simply one of the best places to bird in Crook County (except in winter and early spring until the willows leaf out). The riparian area close to the Crooked River is excellent for migrants, and often has a few Blue-gray Gnatcatchers in early August. Large numbers of warblers and flycatchers can be found along the river (North Shore Road). In the fall, Long-eared Owls roost in the willows (they are actually here year-round), and you might find Black-crowned Night-Herons, White-faced Ibis, American White Pelican, and many shorebirds. In October large numbers of Sparrows and American Pipits can be found. North Shore Road is an area that has produced some rare birds and has great potential. The lake often hosts Common and Pacific Loons and good numbers of ducks in late fall. Check with the camp host at Prineville Reservoir and they will tell you about the nesting Great Horned Owls. Prineville Reservoir is good for waxwings and Red-breasted Sapsuckers in winter.
Gutierrez Ranch return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 D-4 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-5 geographic coordinates 44 06’ 53” N 120 08’ 42” W
Location: This is off the Paulina Hwy between Post and Paulina. This is a private ranch and requires a guided tour with Chuck Gates who is the only local birder with access.
Habitat and Birds: This is a prime wetland habitat with extensive shallow pools and flats. Large numbers of geese and ducks are found year round and huge flocks of shorebirds (especially phalaropes) are there during migration. Raptors include Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks. Greater Sage-Grouse, Black-necked Stilts, American Avocets, Willets, Sandhill Cranes, and Eastern Kingbirds breed here. Good numbers of Brewers, Lark and Vesper Sparrows can also be found. Many of the rare birds found in this county have come from here. It’s considered by most to be the best birding location in the county. Once again, don’t forget that this is private land and access is prohibited without Chuck Gates along.
Paulina and Paulina Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 D-5 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77 E,F-6 geographic coordinates 44 08’ 00” N 119 57’ 44” W (Paulina) Lat & Long 44° 09’ 39” N 119° 59’ 23” W (Paulina Valley)
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Location: This is located in the far eastern part of the county. From Prineville, take Combs Flat Road SE out of town. This road becomes Oregon Road 380 but the locals call it the Paulina Highway. Travel 57 miles to Paulina. To access Paulina Valley, go north out of Paulina (there’s only one dirt road) from the Paulina Store. Cross Road 380 and continue on the dirt road as it swings to the east. This road will climb up over a bluff. From the top, you can see Rabbit Valley Reservoir to the west and Paulina Valley Reservoir to the north. Rabbit Valley Reservoir is inaccessible (see Gutierrez Ranch). Take the dirt road down into Paulina Valley. This road is a public road but it travels through a private ranch and the reservoir is on private property. Please bird from the road.
Habitat and Birds: Check out the small community of Paulina for migrants and winter sparrows. Paulina Valley is the main destination here. The habitat and birds are similar to Gutierrez Ranch in the spring. On both sides of the road, the land is private so you must stay on the road. Black Terns are common in summer and Burrowing Owls can occasionally be seen. Shrikes are found year round and waterfowl are abundant in spring. Take a spotting scope for Paulina Valley Reservoir. This is a great spot in the spring and early summer for waders and Bald Eagles. The reservoir dries up in mid- summer and early fall, so it is not productive until spring.
Rager Ranger Station return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 C-5 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77 E-7 geographic coordinates 44 13’ 58” N 119 44’ 10” W
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Location: From Paulina, continue on Road 380 to Beaver Creek Road for 3.5 miles. Turn left on Beaver Creek and drive 7.5 miles to a fork in the road. Take the right fork (Road 58) and follow the signs to Rager. There are many access points and trails to the forest from here. It is possible to make a circular trip back to Paulina via the 135 Road along the north fork of Bear Creek (Puett Road). From Puett Road about two miles east of Beaver Creek Road, watch for a yellow farm house that is north of the road. Between the road and the yellow farm house, look for Bobolinks that nest here every year. These birds are 300 yards away, so a scope is needed.
Habitat and Birds: The area close to the ranger district has forested areas and riparian vegetation. Wild Turkeys often walk through the housing unit area. Check the feeders. This area has huge potential but is rarely visited. It is good for forest birds and is accessible year round. Check the riparian areas for MacGillivray’s Warbler and listen for Sora in the cattails. Make sure you take Puett Road on your return trip. Puett Road is very good in spring with lots of waterfowl and good sagebrush associated species. Greater Sage-Grouse are sometimes seen from the road.
Antelope Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 D-3 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77 F-4 geographic coordinates 44 00’ 13” N 120 23’ 31” W
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Location: Leave the Paulina Hwy between Post and Paulina and turn south on Pine Creek Road (Road 17). Travel 11.5 miles and turn left on Forest Road 1700-600. Then go 0.5 mile to the reservoir (following the signs).
Habitat and Birds: You pass through the Maury Mountains to get to the reservoir, which can hold shorebirds and ducks. The road to the reservoir is better for birding than the reservoir itself. Conifer forest birds can be found at every stop. Northern Pygmy-Owls and Northern Goshawks are here as well as all three nuthatches and lots of woodpeckers.
SOUTH OF PRINEVILLE
Crooked River Hwy 27 return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 D-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 E-2 geographic coordinates 44 17’ 20” N 120 50’ 32” W (north end near Prineville)
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Location: Leave Prineville south on Main Street. This becomes the Crooked River Hwy 27 and joins with Highway 20 45 miles to the south. The road becomes gravel after about 30 miles but is well maintained.
Habitat and Birds: Juniper forest and canyons. The first leg of this road (from Prineville) travels through the spectacular Crooked River Canyon. Canyon Wren, Chukar, and Rock Wren are found here. The riparian areas along this river can be very productive during migration. Lazuli Bunting and Yellow-breasted Chat nest in these areas and Golden Eagles nest on the cliffs above. Prairie Falcons and Western Screech-Owls also nest here. In winter, the canyon is a good place to find Northern Saw-Whet Owls that use the canyon for shelter. Lazuli Bunting and Yellow Warblers are everywhere in the summer months. Prineville Reservoir can be seen from the dam producing views of waterfowl. Once you climb out of the canyon, you will enter sagebrush-juniper steppe. Gray Flycatchers, Black-throated Gray Warblers, and Ash-throated Flycatchers are here in summer. Townsend's Solitaires and American Robins are the dominate birds in winter. Near the junction of Hwy 20, look and listen for sagebrush-associated species like Sage Thrasher and Sage Sparrow.