Wetland birding habitat

Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Canada Goose, and American Wigeon 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

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

4/12/2026Kirwin NWR1 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (Krider's)

Buteo jamaicensis

4/10/2026S Kirwin Lake Rd, Kirwin US-KS 39.63499, -99.148901 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

4/5/2026Kirwin NWR--Prairie Dog Town2 observed

Red-headed Woodpecker

Melanerpes erythrocephalus

4/5/2026Cedar, KS , BarOO Farms4 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

4/4/20262601–2643 E 700 Rd, Kirwin US-KS 39.62225, -99.197391 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

34/12/2026

Northern Shoveler

14/12/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

64/12/2026

Mourning Dove

34/12/2026

American Coot

44/12/2026

Black-necked Stilt

14/12/2026

American Avocet

14/12/2026

Killdeer

14/12/2026

Ring-billed Gull

14/12/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

14/12/2026

American White Pelican

264/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

44/12/2026

Northern Flicker

14/12/2026

American Kestrel

24/12/2026

Tree Swallow

74/12/2026

American Robin

24/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

14/12/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

74/12/2026

Common Grackle

24/12/2026

Wild Turkey

44/12/2026

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