Located in California’s Southern Sierra Nevada, the Kern River Preserve protects one of the largest remaining riparian forests in the state. These rich river woodlands provide food and shelter for hundreds of bird species and help sustain the South Fork Kern River’s delicate ecosystem. 

The preserve is a designatedGlobally Important Bird Area—one of the first ten in the United States. Over 330 bird species have been recorded here, and more than 200 nest onsite, including the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Summer Tanager, and Willow Flycatcher. Audubon California, working alongside partners, has helped protect over 60,000 acres across the region, enhancing habitat for wetland and cottonwood forest species.