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

Spotted Towhee

Pipilo maculatus

5/23/2026160 Road, Kensington, Kansas, US (39.786, -99.048)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

255/31/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

15/31/2026

Mourning Dove

25/31/2026

American Avocet

25/31/2026

Franklin's Gull

105/31/2026

Ring-billed Gull

25/31/2026

Black Tern

65/31/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

75/31/2026

American White Pelican

45/31/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/31/2026

Burrowing Owl

15/31/2026

Eastern Phoebe

15/31/2026

Bell's Vireo

15/31/2026

Barn Swallow

35/31/2026

Brown Thrasher

15/31/2026

American Goldfinch

15/31/2026

Lark Sparrow

15/31/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

25/31/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

15/31/2026

Dickcissel

35/31/2026

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 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.