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

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

4/8/202610276 Missouri T, Wappapello, Missouri, US (36.927, -90.285)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

84/8/2026

Blue-winged Teal

504/8/2026

Northern Shoveler

134/8/2026

Green-winged Teal

44/8/2026

Hooded Merganser

124/8/2026

Wilson's Snipe

14/8/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

114/8/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

1104/8/2026

Pectoral Sandpiper

24/8/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

44/8/2026

Turkey Vulture

94/8/2026

Bald Eagle

14/8/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

14/8/2026

Barred Owl

14/8/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

24/8/2026

Eastern Phoebe

24/8/2026

Blue Jay

14/8/2026

American Crow

14/8/2026

Fish Crow

24/8/2026

Carolina Chickadee

44/8/2026

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.