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

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Red-headed Woodpecker

Melanerpes erythrocephalus

4/8/202620th St near Koering Rd1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Flicker

14/13/2026

Tree Swallow

24/13/2026

Purple Martin

44/13/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

4/12/2026

Osprey

4/11/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/6/2026

Mourning Dove

14/6/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

24/6/2026

Downy Woodpecker

14/6/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

24/6/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

14/6/2026

Blue Jay

124/6/2026

American Crow

24/6/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

54/6/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

14/6/2026

American Robin

14/6/2026

Purple Finch

754/6/2026

Fox Sparrow

34/6/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

1004/6/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

64/6/2026

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.