Wetland birding habitat

Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 226 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

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

7/13/2026Louisburg Road13 observed

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

7/11/2026Odessa Gravel Pits2 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

7/10/2026Marsh Lake Dam (LQP Co.)1 observed

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

7/6/2026Marsh Lake--Correll Landing3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

137/11/2026

Wood Duck

257/11/2026

Hooded Merganser

117/11/2026

Mourning Dove

47/11/2026

Killdeer

27/11/2026

Ring-billed Gull

17/11/2026

Forster's Tern

17/11/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

37/11/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

27/11/2026

Bald Eagle

27/11/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/11/2026

Eastern Kingbird

37/11/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

57/11/2026

Bank Swallow

17/11/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

37/11/2026

Barn Swallow

47/11/2026

Cliff Swallow

117/11/2026

Northern House Wren

37/11/2026

Marsh Wren

37/11/2026

Gray Catbird

47/11/2026

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