Wetland birding habitat

Imperial National Wildlife Refuge

Arizona · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Imperial National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 213 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Cinnamon Teal, Gadwall, and Mallard among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

4/16/2026Living Waters parcel1 observed

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

4/16/2026Living Waters parcel1 observed

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

4/12/2026Xanyō Xamshré7 observed

Rock Wren

Salpinctes obsoletus

4/10/2026Volcano Wash2 observed

Black-throated Sparrow

Amphispiza bilineata

4/10/202692283, Winterhaven US-CA 32.87493, -114.754957 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eurasian Collared-Dove

24/6/2026

White-winged Dove

44/6/2026

Mourning Dove

104/6/2026

Ridgway's Rail

164/6/2026

Virginia Rail

24/6/2026

Sora

24/6/2026

Common Gallinule

34/6/2026

American Coot

294/6/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/6/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

24/6/2026

White-faced Ibis

754/6/2026

Least Bittern

114/6/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/6/2026

Osprey

24/6/2026

Northern Harrier

14/6/2026

Gila Woodpecker

24/6/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

14/6/2026

Verdin

14/6/2026

Tree Swallow

1504/6/2026

Barn Swallow

14/6/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Imperial National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Imperial National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Imperial National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Imperial National Wildlife Refuge include Cinnamon Teal, Gadwall, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Imperial National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Imperial National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Imperial National Wildlife Refuge?
Imperial National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.