Wetland birding habitat

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 248 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Turkey Vulture, Red-tailed Hawk, and Barred Owl 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

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

6/1/2026Otter Slough CA1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

5/31/2026Otter Slough CA3 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose (Western)

Anser albifrons

5/30/2026Otter Slough CA4 observed

Anhinga

Anhinga anhinga

5/30/2026Mingo NWR--May Pond/Monopoly Marsh1 observed

Swainson's Warbler

Limnothlypis swainsonii

5/30/2026Sun CA1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

5/25/2026Hancock Hacienda1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

115/31/2026

Wood Duck

85/31/2026

Common Gallinule

25/31/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

15/31/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

35/31/2026

Green Heron

15/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

25/31/2026

Bald Eagle

25/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/31/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/31/2026

White-eyed Vireo

15/31/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

15/31/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/31/2026

Blue Jay

15/31/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

15/31/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

15/31/2026

Carolina Wren

15/31/2026

Wood Thrush

15/31/2026

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