Wetland birding habitat

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 218 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Wild Turkey, and Rock Pigeon 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

7/22/2026Hudson Blvd Ag. Pond1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

7/21/2026Fort Snelling SP--Pike Island1 observed

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

7/21/2026140th St. Marsh2 observed

Carolina Wren

Thryothorus ludovicianus

7/21/2026Crosby Farm Regional Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Rock Pigeon

67/22/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/22/2026

Northern House Wren

17/22/2026

American Robin

17/22/2026

House Sparrow

57/22/2026

Common Grackle

17/22/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/22/2026

Indigo Bunting

37/22/2026

Northern Flicker

17/18/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

27/18/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

17/18/2026

Tree Swallow

17/18/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

17/18/2026

Gray Catbird

17/18/2026

House Finch

27/18/2026

American Goldfinch

47/18/2026

Song Sparrow

17/18/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

37/18/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/18/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

17/18/2026

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 Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters for birding?
The best months to visit Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters 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 - Headquarters?
Notable species at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters include Canada Goose, Wild Turkey, Rock Pigeon, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters?
Birding at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters?
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Headquarters offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.