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

5/24/2026Prairie Chicken Lek1 observed

Summer Tanager

Piranga rubra

5/20/202621067 CR-117, Osage US-MN 46.87701, -95.477161 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

95/29/2026

Blue-winged Teal

25/29/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/29/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/29/2026

Least Flycatcher

25/29/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

35/29/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

25/29/2026

Marsh Wren

15/29/2026

Gray Catbird

25/29/2026

Veery

25/29/2026

Swainson's Thrush

15/29/2026

Cedar Waxwing

25/29/2026

American Goldfinch

15/29/2026

Chipping Sparrow

35/29/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

15/29/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

55/29/2026

Ovenbird

25/29/2026

American Redstart

45/29/2026

Magnolia Warbler

15/29/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

35/29/2026

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.