Wetland birding habitat

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Wilkie Unit

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Wilkie Unit is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 211 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Trumpeter Swan, Mallard, and Bald Eagle among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Carolina Wren (Northern)

Thryothorus ludovicianus

7/12/2026Crosby Farm Regional Park1 observed

Carolina Wren

Thryothorus ludovicianus

7/12/2026Crosby Farm Regional Park1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

7/5/2026Glenhurst1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

27/12/2026

Mallard

47/12/2026

Mourning Dove

27/12/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/12/2026

Killdeer

27/12/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

27/12/2026

Great Egret

17/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/12/2026

Bald Eagle

17/12/2026

Downy Woodpecker

27/12/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

17/12/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/12/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/12/2026

Least Flycatcher

17/12/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/12/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/12/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/12/2026

Blue Jay

27/12/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

47/12/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/12/2026

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 - Wilkie Unit for birding?
The best months to visit Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Wilkie Unit 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 - Wilkie Unit?
Notable species at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Wilkie Unit include Trumpeter Swan, Mallard, Bald Eagle, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Wilkie Unit?
Birding at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Wilkie Unit is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Wilkie Unit?
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Wilkie Unit offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.