Grassland birding habitat

Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 211 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Mallard, Northern Pintail, and Ring-necked Duck 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

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

5/29/20266662–6698 E Old Highway 40, New Cambria US-KS 38.88994, -97.465621 observed

Bald Eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

5/22/2026I-70 E, Beverly US-KS 38.87812, -97.978671 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Bobwhite

15/22/2026

Wild Turkey

15/22/2026

Mourning Dove

25/22/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

25/22/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/22/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

15/22/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/22/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/22/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/22/2026

Blue Jay

15/22/2026

American Crow

15/22/2026

Barn Swallow

25/22/2026

Northern House Wren

15/22/2026

Carolina Wren

15/22/2026

Gray Catbird

15/22/2026

American Robin

15/22/2026

American Goldfinch

25/22/2026

Lark Sparrow

15/22/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

15/22/2026

Baltimore Oriole

15/22/2026

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 Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary for birding?
The best months to visit Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary?
Notable species at Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary include Mallard, Northern Pintail, Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup, Great Blue Heron. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary?
Birding at Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary?
Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.