Sunset at Merced National Wildlife Refuge

Winter sunset at Merced National Wildlife Preserve

On a recent trip to California’s Central Valley, I spent some time visiting the Merced National Wildlife Refuge. Part of the Pacific Flyway, it’s a resting place for many species of migrating birds that fly between Alaska and Patagonia. Depending on the season, it’s a temporary home to sandhill cranes, snow geese, mallards, horned owls, and many other species. Visit at dusk and you are likely to experience the mesmerizing sight of tens of thousands of birds flocking together in beautiful and noisy patterns. and you might catch a gorgeous sunset. too!