Wetland birding habitat

Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 215 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Wild Turkey, Rock Pigeon, and Northern Harrier 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Flicker

27/4/2026

Least Flycatcher

7/4/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

7/4/2026

Tree Swallow

7/4/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

7/4/2026

Northern House Wren

7/4/2026

American Goldfinch

7/4/2026

Chipping Sparrow

7/4/2026

Baltimore Oriole

7/4/2026

Common Yellowthroat

7/4/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

7/4/2026

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

7/4/2026

Canada Goose

57/3/2026

Wood Duck

27/3/2026

Hooded Merganser

47/3/2026

Mourning Dove

17/3/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/3/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/3/2026

Osprey

17/3/2026

Bald Eagle

17/3/2026

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 Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge include Wild Turkey, Rock Pigeon, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge?
Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.