Wetland birding habitat

Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 256 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Yellow-throated Vireo

Vireo flavifrons

4/12/2026Marais des Cygnes WA--Queens Rd.2 observed

Northern Yellow Warbler

Setophaga aestiva

4/11/2026Marais des Cygnes WA--Unit F1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Rock Pigeon

14/12/2026

Barred Owl

14/12/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

14/12/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

14/12/2026

Eastern Phoebe

14/12/2026

Blue Jay

14/12/2026

Tufted Titmouse

14/12/2026

American Goldfinch

4/12/2026

Field Sparrow

24/12/2026

Swamp Sparrow

14/12/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

14/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

24/12/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

14/12/2026

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 Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge?
Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.