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

Dark-eyed Junco

Junco hyemalis

7/8/2026Tamarac NWR1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

67/9/2026

Mallard

47/9/2026

Ring-necked Duck

57/9/2026

Ruffed Grouse

17/9/2026

Mourning Dove

47/9/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/9/2026

Common Loon

27/9/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

47/9/2026

Bald Eagle

17/9/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/9/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/9/2026

Barred Owl

27/9/2026

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

17/9/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

27/9/2026

Least Flycatcher

37/9/2026

Eastern Phoebe

27/9/2026

Blue Jay

27/9/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

47/9/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

27/9/2026

Northern House Wren

17/9/2026

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.