Irrigon Area retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 A-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 A-8 geographic coordinates 45 53’ 44” N 119 29’ 29” W
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Location: Irrigon is located between Boardman and Umatilla on Hwy 730. This little town is right on the Columbia so many possibilities are present. Take I-84 to exit 168. Travel NE for 3.9 miles to Paterson Ferry Road. This road leads to a tour loop around McCormack Slough and is one of the most productive birding areas in the county (look for the signs to Umatilla NWR). Turn left (north) here and drive about 3 miles to the entrance to the tour loop (you need to go past the rest area, which can be birded, and the exit to the tour loop to gain entrance). Take the loop which exits near Columbia Lane. Take Columbia Lane east into Irrigon. Before you reach town, take a detour on 8th Street to the fish hatchery. Return to Columbia and bird the trees in the town. Take 10th Street north to Marina Park (be careful. There is a sign that points to Marina Park at 8th Street but that leads to a dead end.) and view the river. Walk the trail both east and west (east is better and part of the trail is paved) of the park for migrants.
Habitat and Birds: The Umatilla NWR provides a varied group of habitats that will produce an equally varied group of birds. There is marsh here along with open water ponds. The ODFW produces grain crops like wheat and corn to attract birds (know that hunting is allowed here and can influence your birding in the fall). Tall cottonwood and Russian Olive groves are present that can provide shelter and sustenance to many species. Birds you might find here include gulls, ducks, grebes, loons, shorebirds, terns, migrant passerines, and rails. Check the trees for Western Screech-Owl and Great Horned Owl. Sharp-shinned and Cooper's Hawks are both here feeding on small birds. In winter, Savannah Sparrows are common in the grassy regions of the loop. In Irrigon, check the Marina Park for loons, gulls, ducks, and grebes. There are several fruiting trees in this park and a waxwing flock might produce a rare Bohemian Waxwing sighting. If you have time for one stop in Morrow County, this should be your spot. Birders heading to Umatilla County or the Wallowa's shouldn't pass up this quick detour.
Boardman retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 A-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 B-7 geographic coordinates 45 50’ 21” N 119 42’ 05” W
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Location: Boardman is 59 miles east of Biggs Junction on I-84. It is 45 miles west of Pendleton. This small town is located right on the Columbia River so the possibility for a gull flyby or a migrant stop-over is pretty good. Take exit 164 off I-84 and go north on Main St. toward the river. Go two blocks and turn left on Boardman Avenue for two blocks and check out the park. From here, go back to the east on Boardman Ave. and check out the fields at the school for loafing gulls. Return to Main St. and go north about 4 blocks across the railroad tracks to Marine Drive. Turn left (west) and bird along this area until the road deadends (you get nice views of the lake and a small marina). After checking out Boardman Marina Park, head back to Main and continue east on Marine Drive. Bird this road to its end and turn south on Ullman Boulevard. There are several ponds along Ullman and a left hand turn at Utility Road will give you a better look at these and other ponds. Continue down Utility to Columbia Avenue. Go directly across Columbia to Rippee Road. Take Rippee east to the entrance of the Boardman Sewage Ponds.
Habitat and Birds: Birds you might find here include gulls, ducks, shorebirds, terns, migrant passerines, and rails.
Ione retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-5 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-7 geographic coordinates 45 30’ 08” N 119 49’ 40” W
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Location: To reach Ione, take I-84 exit 147 and travel south on Hwy 74 for 28 miles.
Habitat and Birds: Small towns in Morrow County provide migrants with sought after resting places. Fall, winter, and spring provide opportunities to find rare birds in these locations and their size allows for thorough coverage in a short period of time. Little birding happens in these regions so please publish your findings if you happen to bird in one of these remote locations. In spring and fall, watch for migrant warblers, buntings, sparrows, and other passerines. Winter rarities here might include Bohemian Waxwings, longspurs, Snow Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Harris’s Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, or even Common Redpoll. Western Scrub-Jays have been seen in the community of Ione and may have even nested. Be sure to check out the surrounding agricultural lands. During the winters of 2007-08 and 2008-09, Snowy Owls were found east of Ione. (Don’t expect to find any of these but……you never know.) Little birding happens in these regions so please publish your findings if you happen to bird in one of these remote locations.
Lexington retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-7 geographic coordinates 45 26’ 49”N 119 41’ 12” W
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Location: To reach Lexington, take I-84 exit 147 and travel south on Hwy 74 for 36 miles.
Habitat and Birds: Small towns in Morrow County provide migrants with sought after resting places. Fall, winter, and spring provide opportunities to find rare birds in these locations and their size allows for thorough coverage in a short period of time. It may be fruitful to drive outlying gravel roads through the agricultural lands. In spring and summer, look for Grasshopper Sparrows in weedy fields. In spring and fall, watch for migrant warblers, buntings, sparrows, and other passerines. In winter, check pastures and feedlots along Highway 74 for large flocks of blackbirds - most will be Brewer's and Red-wings but Yellow-headed and Tricolored Blackbirds are fairly regular in these big congregations. Winter rarities here might include Snowy Owls, Bohemian Waxwings, longspurs, Snow Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Harris’s Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, or even Common Redpoll. (Don’t expect to find any of these but……you never know.) Little birding happens in these regions so please publish your findings if you happen to bird in one of these remote locations.
Heppner retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-8 geographic coordinates 45 21’ 30” N 119 33’ 12” W
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Location: Heppner is in south-central Morrow County about 70 road miles SW of Pendleton. Heppner can be reached by taking Hwy 207 south from I-84 at Hermiston (42 miles) or by taking I-84 exit 147 and traveling south on Hwy 74 for 45 miles. Another route is south from Biggs on Hwy 97 and then taking Hwy 206 through Condon and on to Heppner (about 100 miles). Heppner can also be reached from Bend via Madras to Antelope to Clarno to Fossil and then on to Condon.
Habitat and Birds: Small towns in Morrow County provide migrants with sought after resting places. Check the Fuller Canyon Road Pond which is off of Fuller Canyon Road on the very NW end of town. Fall, winter, and spring provide opportunities to find rare birds in these locations and their size allows for thorough coverage in a short period of time. Little birding happens in these regions so please publish your findings if you happen to bird in one of these remote locations. In spring and fall, watch for migrant warblers, buntings, sparrows, and other passerines. More common winter species would include Horned Lark, Dark-eyed Junco, and Northern Shrike. Look for Eurasian Collared-Dove in town and watch for hummingbird and seed feeders. American Goldfinch, Rufous Hummingbird, and House Finch are the standard fare but Black-chinned Hummingbird and Pine Siskin can be found occasionally.
Willow Creek Reservoir and Willow Creek Road retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-8 geographic coordinates 45 20’ 49” N 119 32’ 39” W
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Location: Willow Creek Reservoir is on the SE corner of Heppner. Travel south from Heppner on Hwy 207 and just as you are leaving town, look for Willow Creek Road. Turn left (east) and follow this road to the reservoir. Continue on Willow Creek Road and bird the riparian strip here. Eventually, you can reach the Umatilla National Forest on this road and access mountain birds (also called the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway or Forest Road 53).
Habitat and Birds: Riparian and dry canyon. Eventually accessing mixed conifers. Because of the diverse habitats along this road, the potential for a diverse list of species exists here. This area is not heavily birded but certainly a mixture of sparrows is likely with Grasshopper Sparrow a possibility. Ducks can be found in the stream and geese can be in the farm fields. Waders like White-faced Ibis and Long-billed Curlew might be found along with the odd Wilson's Snipe or Long-billed Dowitcher if you can find a flooded field. Check the trees around the farm houses for Red-tailed Hawks and Great Horned Owls. Both Chukar and Gray Partridge are possible here. If you can find patches of juniper, listen for Gray Flycatchers. Both Canyon and Rock Wren roam the rocky slopes and both Loggerhead and Northern Shrikes are present in season. Watch for Mountain Bluebirds and Horned Larks. Migrating Passerines may use the creek as a highway to and from their eventual destination. When you get to the forest, look for the normal forest species.
Little Butter Creek Road retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-7 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-9 geographic coordinates 45 23’ 43” N 119 16’ 33” W
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Location: From Heppner, go east on Hwy 74 for 16.2 miles and turn right (south) on this road (the birding along this road can produce more Ring-necked Pheasant than you may have ever seen). Follow the creek and bird the riparian areas and the hills. This road goes about 12 miles and eventually hooks up with forest roads in the Umatilla National Forest. Purchase a forest map if you want to explore from here.
Habitat and Birds: Dry canyons, riparian strip, and farmland. Large trees around old homesteads can produce some very good birding. Spring might be the best time to explore this drainage. Look carefully at the dense foliage in large trees and you'll be rewarded with a peak at a Great Horned Owl. Occasionally, Short-eared Owls can be seen coursing over the hills at dusk or dawn. Western Kingbirds are found here in summer and Say's Phoebe can be found at virtually every man made structure. Little is known about the birds here so be sure to report your findings if you bird Little Butter Creek Road.
Cutsforth County Park retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-7 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 E-9 geographic coordinates 45 11’ 21” N 119 19’ 17” W
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Location: Found along the Blue Mt. Scenic Byway, this county park can be found by taking Willow Creek Road south of Heppner and traveling 20 miles to the park. On the south end of the park, look for a large pond that can be very birdy on a summer morning. There is a playground and picnic area. Make sure you have a Forest Service map if you plan to explore past this park as the road system can be a bit confusing. Cutsforth is often snowed in for the winter.
Habitat and Birds: Tall pines, mixed forest, canyons and riparian areas. Look for mountain species like grouse, accipiters, Vaux's Swift, Rufous & Calliope Hummingbirds. Woodpeckers include Hairy, Flicker, White-headed, Red-naped Sapsucker, Black-backed, Downy, Pileated, and (rarely) Three-toed. Red and White-breasted Nuthatches are common as are Mt. Chickadees and Brown Creeper. Flycatchers include Dusky, Hammonds, and "Western-type" (The distribution of Cordilleran and Pacific-slope Flycatchers in Eastern Oregon is not well understood). Winter Wrens are here year round and Brown-headed Cowbirds can be found in summer. Western Tanagers, Hermit Thrush, Townsend's Solitaire, Western & Mountain Bluebirds are all here. Listen for both Cassin's and Warbling Vireos. Warblers include Yellow, Yellow-rumped, MacGillivray's and Townsend's. Spotted Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, and Junco are here. Black-headed Grosbeaks and Evening Grosbeaks can be found along with Cassin's Finches and Lazuli Bunting. Watch for flocks of Pine Siskins and Red Crossbills.
Ruggs retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 E-7 geographic coordinates 45 15’ 49” N 119 41’ 13” W
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Location: Ruggs is 10 miles SW of Heppner on Hwy 206/207. It lies at the confluence of Rhea Creek and McKinney Creek. A side trip on Rhea Creek Road will access Rhea Creek in several locations and increase the birding opportunities.
Habitat and Birds: The riparian area here can be good for migrant and nesting passerines. The Rhea Creek Canyon is good for wintering and resident raptors. Look for Golden Eagle, Merlin, Prairie Falcon, American Kestrel, and Buteos. In late winter and early spring, before trees leaf out, you may see Great Horned Owls sitting on nests. During the winter months, there is a chance of seeing Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches on the rock out-crops or in the open fields.
Hardman retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 F-7 geographic coordinates 45 10’ 11” N 119 40’ 53” W
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Location: Hardman is a “ghost town” about 20 miles south of Heppner on Hwy 207. The town consists of a few mostly abandoned buildings and some trailers. There are some full time residents. There are few trees. The birding here is probably pretty sparse but it has potential as a small migrant trap as there are few trees for miles around. Though not recommended as a birding destination, if your travels bring you through Hardman, a stop might produce some unusual birds.
Habitat and Birds: Little is known about the bird life here.
Hwy 206 Condon Hwy retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 E-7 geographic coordinates 45 15’ 49” N 119 41’ 13” W
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Location: Follow the directions to Ruggs above and continue toward Condon on Hwy 206.
Habitat and Birds: The main attraction here is the somewhat extensive big sage habitat along parts of this road. This type of habitat is unusual in the county and provides the opportunity for species like Sage Sparrow, Brewer's Sparrow, Gray Flycatcher, and Sage Thrasher.
Anson Wright County Park retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 F-8 geographic coordinates 45 06’ 30” N 119 37’ 29” W
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Location: Located 25 miles south of Heppner off of Hwy 207. Rock Creek runs nearby and provides a good riparian birding experience.
Habitat and Birds: Tall pines, mixed forest, canyons and riparian areas. Look for mountain species like grouse, accipiters, Vaux's Swift, Rufous & Calliope Hummingbirds. Woodpeckers include Hairy, Flicker, White-headed, Red-naped Sapsucker, Black-backed, Downy, Pileated, and (rarely) Three-toed. Red and White-breasted Nuthatches are common as are Mt. Chickadees and Brown Creeper. Flycatchers include Dusky, Hammonds, and "Western-type" (The distribution of Cordilleran and Pacific-slope Flycatchers in Eastern Oregon is not well understood). Winter Wrens are here year round and Brown-headed Cowbirds can be found in summer. Western Tanagers, Hermit Thrush, Townsend's Solitaire, Western & Mountain Bluebirds are all here. Listen for both Cassin's and Warbling Vireos. Warblers include Yellow, Yellow-rumped, MacGillivray's and Townsend's. Spotted Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, and Junco are here. Black-headed Grosbeaks and Evening Grosbeaks can be found along with Cassin's Finches and Lazuli Bunting. Watch for flocks of Pine Siskins and Red Crossbills.
Umatilla National Forest (21 Road) retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 86 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 F-7 geographic coordinates 45 01’ 36” N 119 40’ 41” W
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Location: Located on the southern edge of the county, this area provides most of the normal forest species that can be expected in mountainous Oregon. It is recommended that you purchase a Forest Service map if you really want to explore this area thoroughly. However, if you just want a day trip into the mountains, the best route is to head south from Heppner (you can also come north from Mitchell on Hwy 207) on Hwy 207. Go 32 miles to the 21 Road. Take this road east as far as you like. It will eventually hook up with the 53 road which will take you to Ukiah if you go east and back to Heppner if you take it north.. About 3 miles from Hwy 207, look for a side road (County Road 4602). Take it north for a half mile to a large meadow area. Bird here and return to the 21 road. Continue east for 3.1 miles to Forest Road 022 (Sunflower Flat Road). You can either take this road north back to Hwy 207 or you can continue east to Ukiah (about 48 miles). 22 miles from 207, you will find Penland Road which leads to Penland Lake. This is a good side trip.
Habitat and Birds: Tall pines, mixed forest, canyons and riparian areas. Look for mountain species like grouse, accipiters, Vaux's Swift, Rufous & Calliope Hummingbirds. Woodpeckers include Hairy, Flicker, White-headed, Red-naped Sapsucker, Black-backed, Downy, Pileated, and (rarely) Three-toed. Red and White-breasted Nuthatches are common as are Mt. Chickadees and Brown Creeper. Flycatchers include Dusky, Hammonds, and "Western-type" (The distribution of Cordilleran and Pacific-slope Flycatchers in Eastern Oregon is not well understood). Winter Wrens are here year round and Brown-headed Cowbirds can be found in summer. Western Tanagers, Hermit Thrush, Townsend's Solitaire, Western & Mountain Bluebirds are all here. Listen for both Cassin's and Warbling Vireos. Warblers include Yellow, Yellow-rumped, MacGillivray's and Townsend's. Spotted Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, and Junco are here. Black-headed Grosbeaks and Evening Grosbeaks can be found along with Cassin's Finches and Lazuli Bunting. Watch for flocks of Pine Siskins and Red Crossbills. Nocturnal surveys in this area during late spring and early summer have found calling Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls.
Umatilla National Forest (Sunflower Flat Road or Road 022) retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 geographic coordinates 45 ’ ” N 119 ’ ” W
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Location: Located 25 miles south of Heppner off of Hwy 207. Take Sunflower Flat Road south and explore the forest at your whim. It will eventually hook up with FR 21 and you can take FR 21 back to Hwy 207 or on to Ukiah.
Habitat and Birds: Tall pines, mixed forest, canyons and riparian areas. Look for mountain species like grouse, accipiters, Vaux's Swift, Rufous & Calliope Hummingbirds. Woodpeckers include Hairy, Flicker, White-headed, Red-naped Sapsucker, Black-backed, Downy, Pileated, and (rarely) Three-toed. Red and White-breasted Nuthatches are common as are Mt. Chickadees and Brown Creeper. Flycatchers include Dusky, Hammonds, and "Western-type" (The distribution of Cordilleran and Pacific-slope Flycatchers in Eastern Oregon is not well understood). Winter Wrens are here year round and Brown-headed Cowbirds can be found in summer. Western Tanagers, Hermit Thrush, Townsend's Solitaire, Western & Mountain Bluebirds are all here. Listen for both Cassin's and Warbling Vireos. Warblers include Yellow, Yellow-rumped, and Townsend's. Spotted Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, and Junco are here. Black-headed Grosbeaks and Evening Grosbeaks can be found along with Cassin's Finches and Lazuli Bunting. Watch for flocks of Pine Siskins and Red Crossbills.
Potamus Point Interpretive Site retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 F-10 geographic coordinates 45 01’05” N 119 13’ 18” W
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Location: This area is spectacular as you look 3000' down into the breaks of North Fork of the John Day River. To reach this stunning view and great birding start from Ukiah, Umatilla County. From the turn off HWY 395 at the Ukiah exit turn west onto the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway which is FSRD 53. Follow the FSRD 53 west until you come to FSRD 5316, stay on FSRD 5316 until you arrive at Potamus Point interpretive site.
Habitat and Birds:During the warm summer months watch for Western Rattlesnakes in this area. They are not common , but present. The birding here can be outstanding from Mid-May through late August with Pygmy Nuthatches, Western and Mountain Bluebirds, Western Tanagers, Calliope Hummingbirds, Dusky Flycatchers, White headed Woodpeckers, and Williamsons Sapsuckers. From late May through mid June in the evenings there are Flammulated Owls, Common Poorwills, Northern Saw-whet Owls and many Northern Flying Squirrels. Watch the roads at night for Rubber Boas in May to mid- June. This is the area where a Merlin was observed for several days (10-11 July 1998). It was on territory so watch for this rare summer raptor. Also be alert for Northern Goshawks in this area. There is also a small populations of Mountain Quail in this area. Good Luck!
Irrigon Area retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 A-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 A-8 geographic coordinates 45 53’ 44” N 119 29’ 29” W
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Location: Irrigon is located between Boardman and Umatilla on Hwy 730. This little town is right on the Columbia so many possibilities are present. Take I-84 to exit 168. Travel NE for 3.9 miles to Paterson Ferry Road. This road leads to a tour loop around McCormack Slough and is one of the most productive birding areas in the county (look for the signs to Umatilla NWR). Turn left (north) here and drive about 3 miles to the entrance to the tour loop (you need to go past the rest area, which can be birded, and the exit to the tour loop to gain entrance). Take the loop which exits near Columbia Lane. Take Columbia Lane east into Irrigon. Before you reach town, take a detour on 8th Street to the fish hatchery. Return to Columbia and bird the trees in the town. Take 10th Street north to Marina Park (be careful. There is a sign that points to Marina Park at 8th Street but that leads to a dead end.) and view the river. Walk the trail both east and west (east is better and part of the trail is paved) of the park for migrants.
Habitat and Birds: The Umatilla NWR provides a varied group of habitats that will produce an equally varied group of birds. There is marsh here along with open water ponds. The ODFW produces grain crops like wheat and corn to attract birds (know that hunting is allowed here and can influence your birding in the fall). Tall cottonwood and Russian Olive groves are present that can provide shelter and sustenance to many species. Birds you might find here include gulls, ducks, grebes, loons, shorebirds, terns, migrant passerines, and rails. Check the trees for Western Screech-Owl and Great Horned Owl. Sharp-shinned and Cooper's Hawks are both here feeding on small birds. In winter, Savannah Sparrows are common in the grassy regions of the loop. In Irrigon, check the Marina Park for loons, gulls, ducks, and grebes. There are several fruiting trees in this park and a waxwing flock might produce a rare Bohemian Waxwing sighting. If you have time for one stop in Morrow County, this should be your spot. Birders heading to Umatilla County or the Wallowa's shouldn't pass up this quick detour.
Boardman retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 A-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 B-7 geographic coordinates 45 50’ 21” N 119 42’ 05” W
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Location: Boardman is 59 miles east of Biggs Junction on I-84. It is 45 miles west of Pendleton. This small town is located right on the Columbia River so the possibility for a gull flyby or a migrant stop-over is pretty good. Take exit 164 off I-84 and go north on Main St. toward the river. Go two blocks and turn left on Boardman Avenue for two blocks and check out the park. From here, go back to the east on Boardman Ave. and check out the fields at the school for loafing gulls. Return to Main St. and go north about 4 blocks across the railroad tracks to Marine Drive. Turn left (west) and bird along this area until the road deadends (you get nice views of the lake and a small marina). After checking out Boardman Marina Park, head back to Main and continue east on Marine Drive. Bird this road to its end and turn south on Ullman Boulevard. There are several ponds along Ullman and a left hand turn at Utility Road will give you a better look at these and other ponds. Continue down Utility to Columbia Avenue. Go directly across Columbia to Rippee Road. Take Rippee east to the entrance of the Boardman Sewage Ponds.
Habitat and Birds: Birds you might find here include gulls, ducks, shorebirds, terns, migrant passerines, and rails.
Ione retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-5 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-7 geographic coordinates 45 30’ 08” N 119 49’ 40” W
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Location: To reach Ione, take I-84 exit 147 and travel south on Hwy 74 for 28 miles.
Habitat and Birds: Small towns in Morrow County provide migrants with sought after resting places. Fall, winter, and spring provide opportunities to find rare birds in these locations and their size allows for thorough coverage in a short period of time. Little birding happens in these regions so please publish your findings if you happen to bird in one of these remote locations. In spring and fall, watch for migrant warblers, buntings, sparrows, and other passerines. Winter rarities here might include Bohemian Waxwings, longspurs, Snow Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Harris’s Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, or even Common Redpoll. Western Scrub-Jays have been seen in the community of Ione and may have even nested. Be sure to check out the surrounding agricultural lands. During the winters of 2007-08 and 2008-09, Snowy Owls were found east of Ione. (Don’t expect to find any of these but……you never know.) Little birding happens in these regions so please publish your findings if you happen to bird in one of these remote locations.
Lexington retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-7 geographic coordinates 45 26’ 49”N 119 41’ 12” W
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Location: To reach Lexington, take I-84 exit 147 and travel south on Hwy 74 for 36 miles.
Habitat and Birds: Small towns in Morrow County provide migrants with sought after resting places. Fall, winter, and spring provide opportunities to find rare birds in these locations and their size allows for thorough coverage in a short period of time. It may be fruitful to drive outlying gravel roads through the agricultural lands. In spring and summer, look for Grasshopper Sparrows in weedy fields. In spring and fall, watch for migrant warblers, buntings, sparrows, and other passerines. In winter, check pastures and feedlots along Highway 74 for large flocks of blackbirds - most will be Brewer's and Red-wings but Yellow-headed and Tricolored Blackbirds are fairly regular in these big congregations. Winter rarities here might include Snowy Owls, Bohemian Waxwings, longspurs, Snow Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Harris’s Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, or even Common Redpoll. (Don’t expect to find any of these but……you never know.) Little birding happens in these regions so please publish your findings if you happen to bird in one of these remote locations.
Heppner retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-8 geographic coordinates 45 21’ 30” N 119 33’ 12” W
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Location: Heppner is in south-central Morrow County about 70 road miles SW of Pendleton. Heppner can be reached by taking Hwy 207 south from I-84 at Hermiston (42 miles) or by taking I-84 exit 147 and traveling south on Hwy 74 for 45 miles. Another route is south from Biggs on Hwy 97 and then taking Hwy 206 through Condon and on to Heppner (about 100 miles). Heppner can also be reached from Bend via Madras to Antelope to Clarno to Fossil and then on to Condon.
Habitat and Birds: Small towns in Morrow County provide migrants with sought after resting places. Check the Fuller Canyon Road Pond which is off of Fuller Canyon Road on the very NW end of town. Fall, winter, and spring provide opportunities to find rare birds in these locations and their size allows for thorough coverage in a short period of time. Little birding happens in these regions so please publish your findings if you happen to bird in one of these remote locations. In spring and fall, watch for migrant warblers, buntings, sparrows, and other passerines. More common winter species would include Horned Lark, Dark-eyed Junco, and Northern Shrike. Look for Eurasian Collared-Dove in town and watch for hummingbird and seed feeders. American Goldfinch, Rufous Hummingbird, and House Finch are the standard fare but Black-chinned Hummingbird and Pine Siskin can be found occasionally.
Willow Creek Reservoir and Willow Creek Road retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-8 geographic coordinates 45 20’ 49” N 119 32’ 39” W
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Location: Willow Creek Reservoir is on the SE corner of Heppner. Travel south from Heppner on Hwy 207 and just as you are leaving town, look for Willow Creek Road. Turn left (east) and follow this road to the reservoir. Continue on Willow Creek Road and bird the riparian strip here. Eventually, you can reach the Umatilla National Forest on this road and access mountain birds (also called the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway or Forest Road 53).
Habitat and Birds: Riparian and dry canyon. Eventually accessing mixed conifers. Because of the diverse habitats along this road, the potential for a diverse list of species exists here. This area is not heavily birded but certainly a mixture of sparrows is likely with Grasshopper Sparrow a possibility. Ducks can be found in the stream and geese can be in the farm fields. Waders like White-faced Ibis and Long-billed Curlew might be found along with the odd Wilson's Snipe or Long-billed Dowitcher if you can find a flooded field. Check the trees around the farm houses for Red-tailed Hawks and Great Horned Owls. Both Chukar and Gray Partridge are possible here. If you can find patches of juniper, listen for Gray Flycatchers. Both Canyon and Rock Wren roam the rocky slopes and both Loggerhead and Northern Shrikes are present in season. Watch for Mountain Bluebirds and Horned Larks. Migrating Passerines may use the creek as a highway to and from their eventual destination. When you get to the forest, look for the normal forest species.
Little Butter Creek Road retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 C-7 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 D-9 geographic coordinates 45 23’ 43” N 119 16’ 33” W
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Location: From Heppner, go east on Hwy 74 for 16.2 miles and turn right (south) on this road (the birding along this road can produce more Ring-necked Pheasant than you may have ever seen). Follow the creek and bird the riparian areas and the hills. This road goes about 12 miles and eventually hooks up with forest roads in the Umatilla National Forest. Purchase a forest map if you want to explore from here.
Habitat and Birds: Dry canyons, riparian strip, and farmland. Large trees around old homesteads can produce some very good birding. Spring might be the best time to explore this drainage. Look carefully at the dense foliage in large trees and you'll be rewarded with a peak at a Great Horned Owl. Occasionally, Short-eared Owls can be seen coursing over the hills at dusk or dawn. Western Kingbirds are found here in summer and Say's Phoebe can be found at virtually every man made structure. Little is known about the birds here so be sure to report your findings if you bird Little Butter Creek Road.
Cutsforth County Park retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-7 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 E-9 geographic coordinates 45 11’ 21” N 119 19’ 17” W
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Location: Found along the Blue Mt. Scenic Byway, this county park can be found by taking Willow Creek Road south of Heppner and traveling 20 miles to the park. On the south end of the park, look for a large pond that can be very birdy on a summer morning. There is a playground and picnic area. Make sure you have a Forest Service map if you plan to explore past this park as the road system can be a bit confusing. Cutsforth is often snowed in for the winter.
Habitat and Birds: Tall pines, mixed forest, canyons and riparian areas. Look for mountain species like grouse, accipiters, Vaux's Swift, Rufous & Calliope Hummingbirds. Woodpeckers include Hairy, Flicker, White-headed, Red-naped Sapsucker, Black-backed, Downy, Pileated, and (rarely) Three-toed. Red and White-breasted Nuthatches are common as are Mt. Chickadees and Brown Creeper. Flycatchers include Dusky, Hammonds, and "Western-type" (The distribution of Cordilleran and Pacific-slope Flycatchers in Eastern Oregon is not well understood). Winter Wrens are here year round and Brown-headed Cowbirds can be found in summer. Western Tanagers, Hermit Thrush, Townsend's Solitaire, Western & Mountain Bluebirds are all here. Listen for both Cassin's and Warbling Vireos. Warblers include Yellow, Yellow-rumped, MacGillivray's and Townsend's. Spotted Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, and Junco are here. Black-headed Grosbeaks and Evening Grosbeaks can be found along with Cassin's Finches and Lazuli Bunting. Watch for flocks of Pine Siskins and Red Crossbills.
Ruggs retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 E-7 geographic coordinates 45 15’ 49” N 119 41’ 13” W
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Location: Ruggs is 10 miles SW of Heppner on Hwy 206/207. It lies at the confluence of Rhea Creek and McKinney Creek. A side trip on Rhea Creek Road will access Rhea Creek in several locations and increase the birding opportunities.
Habitat and Birds: The riparian area here can be good for migrant and nesting passerines. The Rhea Creek Canyon is good for wintering and resident raptors. Look for Golden Eagle, Merlin, Prairie Falcon, American Kestrel, and Buteos. In late winter and early spring, before trees leaf out, you may see Great Horned Owls sitting on nests. During the winter months, there is a chance of seeing Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches on the rock out-crops or in the open fields.
Hardman retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 F-7 geographic coordinates 45 10’ 11” N 119 40’ 53” W
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Location: Hardman is a “ghost town” about 20 miles south of Heppner on Hwy 207. The town consists of a few mostly abandoned buildings and some trailers. There are some full time residents. There are few trees. The birding here is probably pretty sparse but it has potential as a small migrant trap as there are few trees for miles around. Though not recommended as a birding destination, if your travels bring you through Hardman, a stop might produce some unusual birds.
Habitat and Birds: Little is known about the bird life here.
Hwy 206 Condon Hwy retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 E-7 geographic coordinates 45 15’ 49” N 119 41’ 13” W
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Location: Follow the directions to Ruggs above and continue toward Condon on Hwy 206.
Habitat and Birds: The main attraction here is the somewhat extensive big sage habitat along parts of this road. This type of habitat is unusual in the county and provides the opportunity for species like Sage Sparrow, Brewer's Sparrow, Gray Flycatcher, and Sage Thrasher.
Anson Wright County Park retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 F-8 geographic coordinates 45 06’ 30” N 119 37’ 29” W
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Location: Located 25 miles south of Heppner off of Hwy 207. Rock Creek runs nearby and provides a good riparian birding experience.
Habitat and Birds: Tall pines, mixed forest, canyons and riparian areas. Look for mountain species like grouse, accipiters, Vaux's Swift, Rufous & Calliope Hummingbirds. Woodpeckers include Hairy, Flicker, White-headed, Red-naped Sapsucker, Black-backed, Downy, Pileated, and (rarely) Three-toed. Red and White-breasted Nuthatches are common as are Mt. Chickadees and Brown Creeper. Flycatchers include Dusky, Hammonds, and "Western-type" (The distribution of Cordilleran and Pacific-slope Flycatchers in Eastern Oregon is not well understood). Winter Wrens are here year round and Brown-headed Cowbirds can be found in summer. Western Tanagers, Hermit Thrush, Townsend's Solitaire, Western & Mountain Bluebirds are all here. Listen for both Cassin's and Warbling Vireos. Warblers include Yellow, Yellow-rumped, MacGillivray's and Townsend's. Spotted Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, and Junco are here. Black-headed Grosbeaks and Evening Grosbeaks can be found along with Cassin's Finches and Lazuli Bunting. Watch for flocks of Pine Siskins and Red Crossbills.
Umatilla National Forest (21 Road) retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 86 D-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 F-7 geographic coordinates 45 01’ 36” N 119 40’ 41” W
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Location: Located on the southern edge of the county, this area provides most of the normal forest species that can be expected in mountainous Oregon. It is recommended that you purchase a Forest Service map if you really want to explore this area thoroughly. However, if you just want a day trip into the mountains, the best route is to head south from Heppner (you can also come north from Mitchell on Hwy 207) on Hwy 207. Go 32 miles to the 21 Road. Take this road east as far as you like. It will eventually hook up with the 53 road which will take you to Ukiah if you go east and back to Heppner if you take it north.. About 3 miles from Hwy 207, look for a side road (County Road 4602). Take it north for a half mile to a large meadow area. Bird here and return to the 21 road. Continue east for 3.1 miles to Forest Road 022 (Sunflower Flat Road). You can either take this road north back to Hwy 207 or you can continue east to Ukiah (about 48 miles). 22 miles from 207, you will find Penland Road which leads to Penland Lake. This is a good side trip.
Habitat and Birds: Tall pines, mixed forest, canyons and riparian areas. Look for mountain species like grouse, accipiters, Vaux's Swift, Rufous & Calliope Hummingbirds. Woodpeckers include Hairy, Flicker, White-headed, Red-naped Sapsucker, Black-backed, Downy, Pileated, and (rarely) Three-toed. Red and White-breasted Nuthatches are common as are Mt. Chickadees and Brown Creeper. Flycatchers include Dusky, Hammonds, and "Western-type" (The distribution of Cordilleran and Pacific-slope Flycatchers in Eastern Oregon is not well understood). Winter Wrens are here year round and Brown-headed Cowbirds can be found in summer. Western Tanagers, Hermit Thrush, Townsend's Solitaire, Western & Mountain Bluebirds are all here. Listen for both Cassin's and Warbling Vireos. Warblers include Yellow, Yellow-rumped, MacGillivray's and Townsend's. Spotted Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, and Junco are here. Black-headed Grosbeaks and Evening Grosbeaks can be found along with Cassin's Finches and Lazuli Bunting. Watch for flocks of Pine Siskins and Red Crossbills. Nocturnal surveys in this area during late spring and early summer have found calling Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls.
Umatilla National Forest (Sunflower Flat Road or Road 022) retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 geographic coordinates 45 ’ ” N 119 ’ ” W
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Location: Located 25 miles south of Heppner off of Hwy 207. Take Sunflower Flat Road south and explore the forest at your whim. It will eventually hook up with FR 21 and you can take FR 21 back to Hwy 207 or on to Ukiah.
Habitat and Birds: Tall pines, mixed forest, canyons and riparian areas. Look for mountain species like grouse, accipiters, Vaux's Swift, Rufous & Calliope Hummingbirds. Woodpeckers include Hairy, Flicker, White-headed, Red-naped Sapsucker, Black-backed, Downy, Pileated, and (rarely) Three-toed. Red and White-breasted Nuthatches are common as are Mt. Chickadees and Brown Creeper. Flycatchers include Dusky, Hammonds, and "Western-type" (The distribution of Cordilleran and Pacific-slope Flycatchers in Eastern Oregon is not well understood). Winter Wrens are here year round and Brown-headed Cowbirds can be found in summer. Western Tanagers, Hermit Thrush, Townsend's Solitaire, Western & Mountain Bluebirds are all here. Listen for both Cassin's and Warbling Vireos. Warblers include Yellow, Yellow-rumped, and Townsend's. Spotted Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, and Junco are here. Black-headed Grosbeaks and Evening Grosbeaks can be found along with Cassin's Finches and Lazuli Bunting. Watch for flocks of Pine Siskins and Red Crossbills.
Potamus Point Interpretive Site retun to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 85 D-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 73 F-10 geographic coordinates 45 01’05” N 119 13’ 18” W
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Location: This area is spectacular as you look 3000' down into the breaks of North Fork of the John Day River. To reach this stunning view and great birding start from Ukiah, Umatilla County. From the turn off HWY 395 at the Ukiah exit turn west onto the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway which is FSRD 53. Follow the FSRD 53 west until you come to FSRD 5316, stay on FSRD 5316 until you arrive at Potamus Point interpretive site.
Habitat and Birds:During the warm summer months watch for Western Rattlesnakes in this area. They are not common , but present. The birding here can be outstanding from Mid-May through late August with Pygmy Nuthatches, Western and Mountain Bluebirds, Western Tanagers, Calliope Hummingbirds, Dusky Flycatchers, White headed Woodpeckers, and Williamsons Sapsuckers. From late May through mid June in the evenings there are Flammulated Owls, Common Poorwills, Northern Saw-whet Owls and many Northern Flying Squirrels. Watch the roads at night for Rubber Boas in May to mid- June. This is the area where a Merlin was observed for several days (10-11 July 1998). It was on territory so watch for this rare summer raptor. Also be alert for Northern Goshawks in this area. There is also a small populations of Mountain Quail in this area. Good Luck!