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

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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

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

3/6/2026Mother Lake1 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

3/6/2026Blue Lake WTP1 observed

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

3/5/2026Veterans Memorial Park1 observed

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Regulus satrapa

3/5/2026Minnesota Valley NWR--Bass Ponds1 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (Harlan's)

Buteo jamaicensis

3/3/2026Colman Lake Trail1 observed

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.