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

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

6/1/2026Mission Wash—North Side—for Atlas1 observed

White-eyed Vireo

Vireo griseus

6/1/2026Mission Wash—North Side—for Atlas1 observed

Brown-crested Flycatcher

Myiarchus tyrannulus

6/1/2026Mission Wash3 observed

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

6/1/2026Mission Wash6 observed

Western Tanager

Piranga ludoviciana

6/1/2026Living Waters parcel (restricted access)3 observed

Bell's Vireo

Vireo bellii

5/27/2026Picacho SRA2 observed

Rock Wren

Salpinctes obsoletus

5/27/2026Picacho SRA1 observed

White-throated Swift

Aeronautes saxatalis

5/27/2026Picacho SRA7 observed

Lesser Goldfinch

Spinus psaltria

5/27/2026Picacho SRA3 observed

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

5/25/2026Living Waters parcel (restricted access)1 observed

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.