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

Common Gallinule

Gallinula galeata

5/30/2026David H. Steen WMA1 observed

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

5/30/2026Big Stone NWR--Headquarters1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

205/31/2026

Mourning Dove

65/31/2026

Killdeer

15/31/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

35/31/2026

American White Pelican

245/31/2026

Willow Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/31/2026

Tree Swallow

205/31/2026

American Robin

25/31/2026

Clay-colored Sparrow

125/31/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

205/31/2026

Mallard

45/30/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

15/30/2026

Green Heron

25/30/2026

Great Blue Heron

55/30/2026

Barn Swallow

25/30/2026

Cliff Swallow

75/30/2026

Sedge Wren

15/30/2026

Marsh Wren

25/30/2026

American Goldfinch

15/30/2026

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 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.