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

4/15/202656278, Ortonville US-MN 45.25255, -96.400346 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

4/15/2026Joe Spors Slough5 observed

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

4/15/2026Big Stone NWR--Auto Tour Road1 observed

Hudsonian Godwit

Limosa haemastica

4/15/2026Big Stone NWR--Auto Tour Road2 observed

Long-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus scolopaceus

4/14/2026281st Ave1 observed

Dunlin

Calidris alpina

4/14/2026Co Rd 73 observed

Garganey

Spatula querquedula

4/14/2026Joe Spors Slough1 observed

Marsh Wren

Cistothorus palustris

4/13/2026Marsh Lake WMA route1 observed

Sora

Porzana carolina

4/13/2026Joe Spors Slough1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Osprey

14/14/2026

American White Pelican

304/13/2026

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.