a flock of birds standing on top of a lush green field

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, sunrise to sunset

About This Location

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 265 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Mallard 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

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

7/21/2026Hudson Blvd - Agriculture Pond1 observed

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

7/21/2026140th St. Marsh2 observed

Carolina Wren

Thryothorus ludovicianus

7/21/2026Crosby Farm Regional Park1 observed

Rough-legged Hawk

Buteo lagopus

7/20/2026Linwood Park1 observed

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

7/18/2026180th St. Marsh (Marshall's Marsh)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/19/2026

Green Heron

17/19/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/19/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

47/19/2026

Barn Swallow

37/19/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/19/2026

Gray Catbird

17/19/2026

American Goldfinch

17/19/2026

Song Sparrow

17/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

17/19/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/19/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/19/2026

Indigo Bunting

17/19/2026

Wood Duck

17/19/2026

Chimney Swift

27/19/2026

Ring-billed Gull

257/19/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/19/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/19/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/19/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/19/2026

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.

  4. 4

    Stop at the visitor center for current bird sighting reports and trail maps.

  5. 5

    Check the refuge website for seasonal road and trail closures before visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds for birding?
The best months to visit Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds?
Notable species at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Mallard, Dark-eyed Junco, Northern Cardinal, Mourning Dove, American Coot, Sandhill Crane, Blue Jay, Gadwall, American Black Duck, Mallard x American Black Duck (hybrid). The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds?
Birding at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds?
There is no entrance fee at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds. Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
What amenities are available at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds?
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Bass Ponds offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.