Isenberg Crane Reserve

Also known as the Woodbridge Ecological Reserve, the Isenberg Crane Reserve occupies 147 acres of low freshwater marsh, grasslands, and flooded pastures, making it an excellent bird habitat. It is one of California's most concentrated sites for Greater Sandhill cranes and hosts more than 30 different species of migratory birds, including Canadian geese, snow geese, tundra swans, and Lesser Sandhill cranes, among others.

Viewing of the Greater Sandhills, which are on the state's list of threatened species, is best between late September and early March. They can be seen feeding, loafing, and roosting, but the true highlight of any visit is to see the cranes make a "fly in," which typically occurs in the early evening, just before sunset.

During other times of the year, the reserve serves as home to red-wing blackbirds, black-shouldered Kite, American kestrel, ring-necked pheasant, meadowlarks, and a variety of small songbirds. Tours are organized several times a year by the Department of Fish and Game, which includes a presentation on Sandhill cranes and their habitat. Advance reservations are required.

The Isenberg Crane Reserve is located in San Joaquin County on West Woodbridge Road, Lodi, California 95242. It is divided into two parcels, known as the South Site and North Site. The latter has a crane viewing shelter, but it can only be visited on a docent led tour. The South Site is open to the public 24/7.