Lake birding habitat

Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 230 species recorded on eBird. This lake and 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

7/12/2026

Wood Duck

7/12/2026

Ring-necked Duck

7/12/2026

Ruffed Grouse

17/12/2026

American Coot

7/12/2026

Black Tern

27/12/2026

Common Loon

17/12/2026

Green Heron

27/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

37/12/2026

American White Pelican

17/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/12/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/12/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

7/12/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

7/12/2026

Purple Martin

7/12/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

17/12/2026

Marsh Wren

7/12/2026

European Starling

37/12/2026

Wood Thrush

7/12/2026

American Robin

7/12/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.