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

5/24/2026Prairie Chicken Lek1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

746/2/2026

Trumpeter Swan

116/2/2026

Blue-winged Teal

46/2/2026

Mallard

46/2/2026

Canvasback

16/2/2026

Ring-necked Duck

46/2/2026

Mourning Dove

16/2/2026

Sora

36/2/2026

Sandhill Crane

16/2/2026

Killdeer

16/2/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

26/2/2026

Common Loon

16/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

186/2/2026

Great Blue Heron

26/2/2026

Northern Harrier

16/2/2026

Bald Eagle

16/2/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

16/2/2026

Common Raven

16/2/2026

Tree Swallow

256/2/2026

Purple Martin

186/2/2026

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.