Wetland birding habitat

Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 313 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Blue-winged Teal 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

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

Dendrocygna autumnalis

7/10/2026Mound City sewage lagoons, Missouri, US (40.124, -95.224)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

37/18/2026

Mourning Dove

67/18/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

17/18/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/18/2026

Great Egret

37/18/2026

Great Blue Heron

97/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

47/18/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/18/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

37/18/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/18/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/18/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

17/18/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/18/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/18/2026

Tree Swallow

37/18/2026

Barn Swallow

127/18/2026

Carolina Wren

17/18/2026

Wood Thrush

17/18/2026

American Robin

37/18/2026

Cedar Waxwing

37/18/2026

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 Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge include Snow Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Blue-winged Teal, Mallard, Ring-necked Duck. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge?
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.