Southwest Zone
Table of Contents
Recreation Report
April 10, 2024
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Coos and Curry counties
Coquille Valley Wildlife Area (CVWA)
Coquille Valley Wildlife Area (CVWA) in Coos County is open to public access. Permits for access are required and are available, free of charge, at the kiosk located in the parking lot along North Bank Road. You must access CVWA through this point. Please fill out the upper half ("A" half) of the permit and deposit it in the slot located on the post of the kiosk. Sign and carry the lower half ("B" half) with you while you enjoy CVWA. At the end of your visit please fill out the B half and deposited it in the same slot.
CVWA, both Winter Lake and Beaver Slough Tracts, are open to seven-day-a-week access from Feb. 1 through Aug. 31. From Sept. 1 through Jan. 31 Winter Lake Tract is open to public access Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays while Beaver Slough Tract remains open seven days a week.
Coos County
Birds
The Oregon Coast is a great place to look for migrating birds. Viewing hotspots include the various rock islands near Bandon, Cape Arago, Coos Bay and the Coquille River estuary. Learn more about these and other birding hotspots here.
Spring is here, even if the weather doesn't seem spring-like. Many songbirds are becoming quite vocal as they realize the breeding season is upon them. Also, many of these birds are migrating right now. They are headed to northern nesting areas. Some of these migratory songbirds are referred to as Neotropical migrants. They migrate from tropical and sub-tropical wintering areas to northern nesting areas annually. April and May are good times to see these species as they move through Oregon. A few examples of Neo-tropical migrant birds are Olive-sided flycatcher and Western tanagers. The composition of bird species can change weekly during the migration, so it is worth multiple trips to see who is "in town."
Spring is here, even if the weather doesn't seem spring-like. Many songbirds are becoming quite vocal as they realize the breeding season is upon them. Also, many of these birds are migrating right now. They are headed to northern nesting areas. Some of these migratory songbirds are referred to as Neotropical migrants. They migrate from tropical and sub-tropical wintering areas to northern nesting areas annually. April and May are good times to see these species as they move through Oregon. A few examples of neo-tropical migrant birds are Olive-sided flycatcher and Western tanagers. The composition of bird species can change weekly during the migration, so it is worth multiple trips to see who it "in town".
Keep an eye (or an ear) out for black oystercatchers ⸻ an Oregon Conservation Strategy Species with an orange bill that can be found near several rocky coastal destinations including the islands near Bandon, Gold Beach, and Cape Arago. These birds are very active and vocal with a sharp, shrill call that can be heard from quite a distance.
Are you looking for a new birding challenge? Consider adding Allen's Hummingbird to your Oregon life-list. This species returns in March from its wintering grounds in central Mexico to breed along the California and Oregon coast south of Reedsport.
Key identifying traits include a male's greenish-bronze back feathers, which are typically more orange on some Rufus hummingbirds. These species can be easily confused, though adult male Allen's have a distinct notch on the second tail feather out from the center. Consider attracting these birds to your yard to get a better look—you can learn more native pollinators and habitat for hummingbirds here.
Marine mammals
Pupping season for harbor seals is in the spring. Females will give birth to their pups on rocks and beaches along the Pacific coast. The young animals stay with their mothers for a period of months before moving off to learn how to hunt on their own. Frequently mothers with young pups will "park" the young ones on beaches while the mother goes off and hunts. Young harbor seal pups are not capable of staying in the water for extended periods like adults are. Anytime a harbor seal pup is on the beach alone it is best to assume it is there resting, warming up and waiting for mom to come back and feed them. Leave the pups where they are and observe them only from a distance.
Lots of sea lions and seals are using the Simpson's Reef haul out on Cape Arago Hwy. Now is a great time to visit lookout at Simpson's Reef, which offers a great view of these animals.
In the past several years there has been a few elephant seal pups born at Simpson Reef. These babies are occasionally seen from the observation platform at Simpson Reef. Elephant seal pupping in Oregon is a relatively new thing. While there are some records of an occasional pup being born here, it has only been in the past five, or so, years that pupping is happening regularly. If you encounter an elephant seal or any other seal or selion on a beach stay well away from it and observe from a distance.
Gray whales, the most commonly seen species on the west coast, were the first marine mammals to be recovered through the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA). Significant declines occurred historically due to commercial overharvest before federal protections were established. The gray whale population in Oregon was removed from the Federal ESA in 1994, although gray whales are still listed as Endangered by the State of Oregon, and are included as a Sensitive Species in the Oregon Conservation Strategy. Threats today include boat collisions, entanglement and other disturbances.
Gray whales have one of the longest known mammal migrations, traveling from the Bering Sea south to calving grounds in Baja California, Mexico. In mid-February through the early summer, whales pass through Oregon with their young, often passing close-by along the coast. In southern Oregon, whale-watching hot spots include Harris Beach, Cape Ferrelo, Battle Rock, Face Rock, Shore Acres, and Umpqua Lighthouse. You can learn more about when and where to spot gray whales on Oregon State Park's Whale Watching website.
Big game
Black bears become active in the spring after emerging from their winter dens. These animals are most interested in feeding on grass and the tender tips of brush where new growth is occurring. Generally, bears are attracted to south facing slopes where forest openings provide ideal conditions for grass and brush to grow. Look for clearcuts, slides and meadows on south slopes and bears may be in the vicinity.
Douglas County
Big game
Columbian white-tailed deer once occurred across northwestern Oregon. Only two small populations remain, and the Umpqua Valley is a great place to come see this unique western population of what is better known as an eastern deer species. Recovery efforts in the Umpqua Valley resulted in removal of this population from the federal Endangered Species Act in 2003.
This time of year, Columbian white-tailed (and black-tailed) deer can be found throughout much of the greater Roseburg area. Visit them at the North Bank Habitat Management Area, or look for herds on private agricultural lands and fields, where they often occur in strong numbers.
Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area is a good place to watch elk as several herds are currently spending most days in the fields near observation points. Dean Creek is also a good place to see a variety of birds including waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds.
Birds
Acorn woodpeckers are a Strategy Species in the Klamath and Willamette Valley Ecoregions, but the abundance of oak habitats in southwestern Oregon provide an important refuge these birds. As year-round residents of Douglas County, acorn woodpeckers can be found living in groups and defending granary trees. Birds drill holes into granary trees, which they then use to store insects and acorns which provide food through the winter. Common locations to find acorn woodpeckers include Roseburg at River Forks Park, North Bank Habitat Management Area and Whistlers Park.
The website www.UmpquaBirds.org is a great resource for birding opportunities in Douglas County. Visit the website to download seasonal lists of birds expected to occur in coastal, cascade, and valley habitats within the region. You can also visit umpquaaudubon.org to sign up for upcoming birding events or to look for presentations about the region's avifauna.
The Oregon Coast is a great place to look for migrating birds. Viewing hotspots include the various rock islands near Bandon, Cape Arago, Coos Bay and the Coquille River estuary. Learn more about these and other birding hotspots here.
Keep an eye (or an ear) out for black oystercatchers ⸻ an Oregon Conservation Strategy Species with an orange bill that can be found near several rocky coastal destinations including the islands near Bandon, Gold Beach, and Cape Arago. These birds are very active and vocal with a sharp, shrill call that can be heard from quite a distance.
Are you looking for a new birding challenge? Consider adding Allen's Hummingbird to your Oregon life-list. This species returns in March from its wintering grounds in central Mexico to breed along the California and Oregon coast south of Reedsport.
Key identifying traits include a male's greenish-bronze back feathers, which are typically more orange on some Rufus hummingbirds. These species can be easily confused, though adult male Allen's have a distinct notch on the second tail feather out from the center. Consider attracting these birds to your yard to get a better look—you can learn more native pollinators and habitat for hummingbirds here.
Marine mammals
Lots of sea lions and seals are using the Simpson's Reef haul out on Cape Arago Hwy. Now is a great time to visit lookout at Simpson's Reef, which offers a great view of these animals.
In the past several years there has been a few elephant seal pups born at Simpson Reef. These babies are occasionally seen from the observation platform at Simpson Reef. Elephant seal pupping in Oregon is a relatively new thing. While there are some records of an occasional pup being born here, it has only been in the past five, or so, years that pupping is happening regularly. If you encounter an elephant seal or any other seal or selion on a beach stay well away from it and observe from a distance.
Gray whales, the most commonly sighted species on the west coast, were the first marine mammals to be recovered through the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA). Significant declines occurred historically due to commercial overharvest before federal protections were established. The gray whale population in Oregon was removed from the Federal ESA in 1994, although gray whales are still listed as Endangered by the State of Oregon, and are included as a Sensitive Species in the Oregon Conservation Strategy. Threats today include boat collisions, entanglement and other disturbances.
Gray whales have one of the longest known mammal migrations, traveling from the Bering Sea south to calving grounds in Baja California, Mexico. In mid-February through the early summer, whales pass through Oregon with their young, often passing close-by along the coast. In southern Oregon, whale-watching hot spots include Harris Beach, Cape Ferrelo, Battle Rock, Face Rock, Shore Acres, and Umpqua Lighthouse. You can learn more about when and where to spot gray whales on Oregon State Park's Whale Watching website.
Pond turtles – There's an app for that!
Northwestern pond turtles are one of five reptile species in the Oregon Conservation Strategy. They are the only native species of turtle in Southwestern Oregon. From April through June, turtles emerge from winter hibernation and travel to summer breeding habitat where they are often observed basking on logs and rocks in ponds and rivers.
In urban and suburban areas, invasive red-eared sliders have become increasingly widespread from introductions of pet turtles. Red-eared sliders are a common species in the pet trade, and are illegal to own in Oregon due to concerns about the health of native turtle populations (ODFW accepts surrenders of red-eared sliders year-round; contact your nearest ODFW office).
Partners at Western Oregon University are working with ODFW to track populations of pond turtles and invasive red-eared sliders in Oregon. If you would like to contribute a turtle sighting to our OregonTurtles community science database, you can visit this website to access the reporting tool.
Jackson and Josephine counties
Birds
On the first Wednesday of every month, birders can join Rogue Valley Audubon Society for a field trip to learn more about birds on Denman Wildlife Area. You can learn more about this opportunity on the chapter's website, here.
Quail: As spring progresses, keep an eye out for the two species of quail that live in southwest Oregon. If you see a ground bird with a long straight head plume and chestnut-colored throat and flanks, then you're looking at a mountain quail—a species that typically lives at higher elevations.
Unlike mountain quail, California quail have a curved head plume and the feathers on their chest give them a scaled appearance. The California quail, also referred to as the valley quail, is typically found in the lower elevation valleys, and can be more common than the mountain quail in agriculture and suburban areas near thick brushy cover.
Yellowlegs: If you find yourself on a mudflat, look for greater and lesser yellowlegs. Yellowlegs are medium-sized shorebirds with bright yellow legs. They can be seen foraging actively in shallow water areas, taking long strides and reaching down to snatch invertebrates. It can be hard to tell the greater and lesser yellowlegs apart by plumage alone. Greater yellowlegs are larger in overall size than lesser yellowlegs, with a slightly upturned bill that is longer than their head. They have a longer neck, larger and blockier head and bill, and bigger chest than lesser yellowlegs. Calls and songs can also be very useful for telling these birds apart.
Turkey vulture: Spring brings trees budding, bees buzzing, flowers blooming, and birds chirping. Along with all the hustle and bustle of spring's arrival, turkey vultures begin making their first appearances. Turkey vultures are a large dark-brown colored bird with a bright red head. They are widespread over open country, woods, deserts, and foothills scavenging for carrion.
Unlike most birds, turkey vultures have a well-developed sense of smell allowing them to smell carrion from over a mile away. Although their feeding habits can seem repulsive to some, they are one of the environment's best defense at clearing carrion before it rots and potentially spreads disease. On crisp early mornings, as the sun rises, they can sometimes be seen perched on a branch or rock with their wings spread, to increase their body temperatures after the cool night.
Bald eagle: While adults are rather distinct, juvenile bald and golden eagles can be difficult to distinguish during their first winter. Bald eagles go through several plumage stages, transitioning from fully dark brown, to mottled brown and white, to full adult plumage of a blackish-brown body with a white head and tail. Bald eagles don't acquire their full plumage until they're approximately 5 years old. If you've seen a brown eagle lacking a white head and tail, be sure to check your field guide to compare it with golden eagle plumage. Bald eagles (our national emblem since 1782) are year-round residents of the Rogue Valley. Recently a juvenile has been observed diving on waterfowl in the Whetstone Pond at the Denman Wildlife Area.
Lewis's woodpeckers: These are year-round residents of the Rogue Valley. Look for this Strategy Species in areas with abundant large snags and open canopy. Unlike other woodpeckers in North America, this species forages on aerial insects (flycatching), making short bouts of flight from elevated perches to catch prey.
Amphibians
Salamanders are a group of tailed amphibians with long bodies and short limbs. They often prefer habitats with damp conditions, which allows them to "breathe" better through their skin. Wet and rainy days (typically late fall through spring in Oregon) are the best time to look for salamanders, as the additional moisture from fog and rain allow for increased surface activity. To find salamanders, look in cracks or search under bark, rocks or logs. If you move any debris during your search, remember to put it back where you found it when you're done—salamanders are sensitive to disturbance and many salamanders are also protected in Oregon.
iNaturalist
iNaturalist is used to share and gather information on various plants and animals around you. The information provided by users generates data for science and conservation. This is a very popular, and free, tool used by both nature lovers and scientists alike. If you're interested in learning about what plants or animals have been observed in your area, or if you'd like to submit wildlife observations to support conservation efforts in Oregon, you can access the platform via the website or through an app. Visit: https://www.inaturalist.org/ for more information, or join ODFW's Wildlife Conservation project.
Hiking opportunities
Lithia Park
Ninety-three acres of forested canyonland, located in the heart of Ashland-Lithia Park provides miles of trail systems to explore that are friendly to all experience levels. Within the park is a Japanese garden, a formal rose garden, duck ponds, picnic areas, fountains, and so much more. Deer and other wildlife can be seen as the park meanders along Ashland Creek. Bring your binoculars for bird-viewing opportunities. No dogs are allowed in Lithia but there are dog parks located nearby.
Table Rocks
The two Table Rocks of southern Oregon provide excellent hiking opportunities. The Upper Table Rock Trail is located off Modoc Road and is a slightly shorter hike, whereas the Lower Table Rock Trail is located off Table Rock Road and is longer, yet a slightly less steep climb. Both of these trails provide a good opportunity to see a variety of native wildlife, and to hear vocal species like northern flicker and acorn woodpeckers. Both hikes offer excellent views of the surrounding Cascade and Siskiyou mountain ranges if you hike to the top of the trail.
Jacksonville Forest Park
The Jacksonville Forest Park is located just outside of the historic town of Jacksonville. This is a 1,100-acre park with over 30 trails provided access to scenic forests, creeks, and sunny oak woodlands. The park provides excellent opportunities for hikers (and bikers and equestrians) of all skill-levels. The city of Jacksonville offers a digital map to help users stay on-trail, available here.
Rogue Gorge and Natural Bridge
Located roughly 52 miles northeast of Medford, in the beautiful Upper Rogue Wild and Scenic River the Rogue River Gorge Trail and Natural Bridge are waiting for exploration. The 3.5-mile paved loop trail guides you along the basalt lava tubes where the Rogue River gouges its way through. Enjoy being out in nature while viewing and listening to the vocals of local songbirds and other wildlife that inhabit the area.
Denman Wildlife Area
Below the fourth pond and to the north, you can access the Denman Horse Trail (2.5 mile) with great views of the Upper Table Rock. While a daytime encounter is unlikely, keep an eye out for mammal sign (scat, scrapes, trails and tracks) to learn about how deer, fox, bear, beaver and muskrat use the important riparian habitat along Little Butte Creek. Waterfowl are also common on Little Butte Creek, especially near the confluence of the Rogue River.
An interpretive trail guide is available from the Denman Wildlife Area office; call ahead to ask for a copy or to get a map of other trails on with wildlife area (541-826-8774). With the wet season settling into the Rogue Valley, please remember to use caution on the slippery trails within the wildlife area. A pair of waterproof boots might be beneficial on your next visit.
Recently a pair of Osprey have been observed on the Denman Wildlife Area, over Whetstone Pond, busily building a nest on the west nesting platform. Osprey search for fish by flying and hovering over water surfaces, watching and waiting for prey. Once prey has been sighted, they make a steep and swift dive, plunging into the waters below, talons first, to break the water surface tension, allowing them to make such extreme dives safely.
The covered viewing station on Whetstone Pond off East Gregory Road provides a bit of relief from the unpredictable spring weather and offers a great opportunity to view waterfowl, egrets, raptors and songbirds. The viewing station was installed by Oregon Hunters Association and can be accessed from a paved, ADA-accessible pathway that also extends into the pond for up-close viewing access.
A parking permit is required to park at Denman Wildlife Area. Find out how to buy a parking permit.
It is illegal to dump domestic waterfowl and poultry. Domestic ducks and geese compete with native/migratory ducks and geese for nesting habitat and food sources, and domestic waterfowl have the potential of introducing disease into the wild populations. The Denman Wildlife Area staff would also like to make you aware that feeding the birds on the wildlife area is not permitted. Feeding waterfowl can cause the spread of disease as both migratory and domestic birds congregate in large quantities when being fed.