Modoc National Wildlife Refuge is home to more than 250 species of birds and a variety of other wildlife. Located in a high-altitude desert valley on the western edge of the Great Basin in Modoc County, California, the refuge is part of a large complex of mid-altitude wetlands and lakes in northeastern California.

Strategically situated just 60 miles east of the Klamath Basin marshes, the refuge acts as a migration hub and staging area for ducks, geese, and other wetland birds during their spring and fall migrations. The refuge's habitats are also important nesting areas for 76 species of ducks, geese, greater sandhill cranes, and other marsh and upland birds.

Modoc Refuge draws a multitude of birdwatchers during spring and fall migrations. Approximately 45,000 people annually visit the refuge to hunt, fish, and enjoy wildlife. The refuge is a popular site for hunting "honkers" and Great Basin Canada geese, and provides fishing opportunities on Dorris Reservoir.