Grassland birding habitat

McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 200 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Mallard 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-headed Blackbird

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

7/12/2026McPherson Valley Wetlands WA--Big Basin Marshes3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Bobwhite

37/15/2026

Mourning Dove

27/15/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

27/15/2026

Common Nighthawk

47/15/2026

Chimney Swift

17/15/2026

Killdeer

27/15/2026

Great Blue Heron

37/15/2026

Turkey Vulture

157/15/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/15/2026

Bell's Vireo

27/15/2026

American Crow

67/15/2026

Purple Martin

47/15/2026

Barn Swallow

67/15/2026

Cliff Swallow

117/15/2026

American Goldfinch

67/15/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

77/15/2026

Common Grackle

87/15/2026

Indigo Bunting

27/15/2026

Dickcissel

37/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Mallard, Ring-billed Gull, Bald Eagle. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge?
McPherson SFL & Maxwell Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.