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

Louisiana Waterthrush

Parkesia motacilla

5/22/2026Charles A. Lindbergh State Park1 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (Krider's)

Buteo jamaicensis

5/21/20269140 Cannon Road, Swanville, Minnesota, US (45.893, -94.545)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/31/2026

Blue-winged Teal

25/31/2026

Mallard

15/31/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

35/31/2026

Mourning Dove

35/31/2026

Killdeer

35/31/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/31/2026

American White Pelican

685/31/2026

Bald Eagle

35/31/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Northern Flicker

15/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

35/31/2026

Least Flycatcher

35/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

45/31/2026

Eastern Kingbird

25/31/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

35/31/2026

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.