Wetland birding habitat

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 222 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, and Bufflehead among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

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

Great Blue Heron (Great White)

Ardea herodias

4/11/2026Cedar Keys NWR--Snake Key1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eurasian Collared-Dove

14/9/2026

Mourning Dove

54/9/2026

American Oystercatcher

184/9/2026

Black-bellied Plover

44/9/2026

Marbled Godwit

74/9/2026

Short-billed Dowitcher

24/9/2026

Willet

454/9/2026

Laughing Gull

204/9/2026

Ring-billed Gull

44/9/2026

Black Skimmer

224/9/2026

Forster's Tern

44/9/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

34/9/2026

White Ibis

104/9/2026

Tricolored Heron

14/9/2026

Reddish Egret

14/9/2026

Snowy Egret

64/9/2026

Great Egret

84/9/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/9/2026

Brown Pelican

84/9/2026

Turkey Vulture

44/9/2026

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound for birding?
The best months to visit Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound?
Notable species at Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound include Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Red-breasted Merganser, Black-necked Stilt. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound?
Birding at Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound?
Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - Shell Mound offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.