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

Fish Crow

Corvus ossifragus

4/11/2026The Norton Apartments, Salina2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

24/11/2026

Blue-winged Teal

184/11/2026

Northern Shoveler

24/11/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

34/11/2026

Northern Bobwhite

14/11/2026

Rock Pigeon

34/11/2026

Mourning Dove

14/11/2026

American Coot

44/11/2026

Upland Sandpiper

44/11/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/11/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

244/11/2026

Great Blue Heron

34/11/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/11/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

24/11/2026

Blue Jay

44/11/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

14/11/2026

Carolina Wren

24/11/2026

European Starling

44/11/2026

Eastern Bluebird

14/11/2026

American Robin

14/11/2026

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.