Wetland birding habitat

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 243 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

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

5/30/2026Quivira NWR--Migrant's Mile & Park Smith Lake1 observed

Laughing Gull

Leucophaeus atricilla

5/22/2026Quivira NWR--Big Salt Marsh1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

5/21/2026Quivira NWR--Little Salt Marsh1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

245/30/2026

Northern Shoveler

55/30/2026

Mallard

135/30/2026

Northern Bobwhite

45/30/2026

American Coot

15/30/2026

Black-necked Stilt

195/30/2026

American Avocet

25/30/2026

Killdeer

85/30/2026

Snowy Plover

125/30/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

85/30/2026

Baird's Sandpiper

35/30/2026

White-rumped Sandpiper

575/30/2026

Franklin's Gull

115/30/2026

Least Tern

25/30/2026

American White Pelican

185/30/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/30/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/30/2026

Barn Swallow

95/30/2026

Cliff Swallow

45/30/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

85/30/2026

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 Quivira National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Quivira National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Quivira 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 Quivira National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge?
Quivira National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.