Wetland birding habitat

Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh

Indiana · Midwest

Habitat
WetlandRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh is a productive birding destination in Indiana, with 241 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Ring-billed Gull among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse 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

Western Cattle-Egret

Ardea ibis

5/30/2026Bowman bottoms1 observed

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

5/25/2026Patoka River NWR--Oatsville Bottoms (Gibson Co.)1 observed

Little Blue Heron

Egretta caerulea

5/23/2026Line Road Roadside Slough3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/31/2026

Wood Duck

25/31/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/31/2026

Least Bittern

15/31/2026

Green Heron

15/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/31/2026

Eastern Phoebe

15/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

45/31/2026

White-eyed Vireo

15/31/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

15/31/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

25/31/2026

American Crow

25/31/2026

Fish Crow

35/31/2026

Carolina Chickadee

25/31/2026

Tufted Titmouse

25/31/2026

Tree Swallow

15/31/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

55/31/2026

Marsh Wren

15/31/2026

Carolina Wren

15/31/2026

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

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh for birding?
The best months to visit Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh?
Notable species at Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh include Canada Goose, Mallard, Ring-billed Gull, Turkey Vulture, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports wetland, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh?
Birding at Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh?
Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge - Snakey Point Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.