Wetland birding habitat

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 232 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Ruffed Grouse, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Hairy Woodpecker 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

Sharp-tailed Grouse x Greater Prairie-Chicken (hybrid)

Tympanuchus phasianellus x cupido

4/12/2026Hamden Slough Prairie Chicken Blind1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

44/12/2026

Trumpeter Swan

24/12/2026

Ruffed Grouse

24/12/2026

Sandhill Crane

14/12/2026

Killdeer

24/12/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

54/12/2026

Ring-billed Gull

14/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

44/12/2026

Sharp-shinned Hawk

34/12/2026

Bald Eagle

14/12/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/12/2026

Belted Kingfisher

14/12/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

14/12/2026

Northern Flicker

24/12/2026

Blue Jay

14/12/2026

American Crow

14/12/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

14/12/2026

Tree Swallow

54/12/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

14/12/2026

Red-breasted Nuthatch

14/12/2026

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 Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge include Ruffed Grouse, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge?
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.