Wetland birding habitat

Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 218 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

Sharp-tailed Grouse x Greater Prairie-Chicken (hybrid)

Tympanuchus phasianellus x cupido

4/12/2026Hamden Slough Prairie Chicken Blind1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

64/14/2026

Mallard

24/14/2026

Green-winged Teal

54/14/2026

Killdeer

24/14/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

14/14/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/14/2026

American Robin

14/14/2026

Trumpeter Swan

24/11/2026

Rock Pigeon

84/11/2026

Northern Harrier

14/11/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/11/2026

Horned Lark

104/11/2026

American Tree Sparrow

24/11/2026

Western Meadowlark

64/11/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

8004/11/2026

Common Grackle

5004/11/2026

Canada Goose

44/11/2026

Canvasback

114/11/2026

Sandhill Crane

104/11/2026

Turkey Vulture

34/11/2026

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 Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Hamden Slough 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 Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge?
Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.