Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 223 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Ring-necked Pheasant, and Rock Pigeon 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

Neotropic Cormorant

Nannopterum brasilianum

3/2/2026Red Rock Reservoir--132nd Pl. overlook1 observed

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

3/2/2026Red Rock Reservoir--Marina Cove Recreation Area5 observed

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

3/1/2026South Of Elk rock1 observed

Iceland Gull (thayeri/kumlieni)

Larus glaucoides

3/1/2026Red Rock Reservoir--Marina Cove Recreation Area1 observed

Iceland Gull (Thayer's)

Larus glaucoides

3/1/2026Red Rock Reservoir--Marina Cove Recreation Area1 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

2/27/2026Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt--Chichaqua Bottoms Trail1 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

2/27/2026Iowa Capitol grounds1 observed

Western Meadowlark

Sturnella neglecta

2/25/2026Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt--Mendenhall Unit2 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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Ring-necked Pheasant, Rock Pigeon, Red-tailed Hawk, American Robin. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge?
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.