Yolo County | Accessible Birding
The University of California, Davis Arboretum in addition to other large trees on the U.C. campus, has produced excellent rarities (notably Scissor-tailed Flycatcher and Red Crossbills) and often provides good birding. There are nice remnant oaks on the highly altered remains of the Putah Creek channel that runs through campus, in addition to plants representing many different regions. Conifers on campus often harbor Red-breasted Nuthatches (fall through early spring). Chestnut-backed Chickadees (winter) are sometimes found in the pines and oaks along the arboretum trails. There has been a rookery of Black-crowned Night Herons, Snowy Egrets, and Cattle Egrets at the western portion of the arboretum. The arboretum setting is very nice, but is somewhat marred by the loud roar of traffic. eBird Sightings
This is one of several excellent sites within Davis city limits that Davis residents can reach by foot, bike, or a very short drive. A good place to park is in the lots along Old Davis Road.
Accessibility of UC Davis Arboretum
UC Davis Arboretum has over four miles of paved trails on both sides of an improved section of Putah Creek. The arboretum was first established in 1962 and with over sixty years of growth it provides beautiful mature trees and plants for birds. On the western edge is the majestic Peter J. Shields Oak Grove with resident Cooper’s Hawks and Western Bluebirds. The Hummingbird Gateway Garden area, near the Teaching Nursey, is a wonderful location to view various hummingbird species. Putah Creek provides the ability to see a variety of water birds including Pied-billed Grebes, Green Herons, Great Blue Herons, and Black-crowned Night Herons.
Parking is free on the weekends but during the week requires payment using a smartphone parking app. Visit taps.ucdavis.edu/parking to learn more. Several of the parking lots have van accessible handicapped spots. Restrooms are also accessible. Parking is either on-street or in parking lots at various locations.
Trail Map
Directions: From Interstate 80, about 14 miles west of Sacramento, take the U.C. Davis exit (exit 71) and turn right. From Old Davis Road, walk north to the trails that parallel the old creek channel. You may be able to find parking along the street at the western end of the arboretum. From Old Davis Road, turn left at California Avenue, and left at La Rue Road. After 0.4 mile, turn left on Garrod Drive and park near the gazebo. For current parking fees and information visit https://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/directions.