Wetland birding habitat

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

Idaho · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Idaho, with 221 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Tundra Swan among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

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 Egret

Ardea alba

8/22/2026Idaho Panhandle National Forest, Bonners Ferry US-ID 48.71242, -116.42050NWT NWR Overlook Myrtle Creek Rd1 observed

Blue Jay

Cyanocitta cristata

8/22/2026Our house BF1 observed

Semipalmated Plover

Charadrius semipalmatus

8/21/2026Kootenai NWR1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

758/21/2026

Trumpeter Swan

28/21/2026

Cinnamon Teal

38/21/2026

Northern Shoveler

58/21/2026

Gadwall

88/21/2026

Mallard

128/21/2026

Green-winged Teal

48/21/2026

Ruddy Duck

148/21/2026

Mourning Dove

18/21/2026

Vaux's Swift

18/21/2026

American Coot

508/21/2026

Killdeer

58/21/2026

Semipalmated Plover

18/21/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

18/21/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

18/21/2026

Great Blue Heron

38/21/2026

Turkey Vulture

58/21/2026

Northern Harrier

28/21/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

38/21/2026

American Kestrel

18/21/2026

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

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Tundra Swan, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge?
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.