Lake birding habitat

Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 284 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Canada Goose 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

Great-tailed Grackle

Quiscalus mexicanus

5/31/2026Fountain Grove CA (Linn Co.)1 observed

Green-winged Teal

Anas crecca

5/29/2026Fountain Grove CA (Linn Co.)2 observed

Least Tern

Sternula antillarum

5/20/2026Fountain Grove CA (Linn Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/23/2026

Northern Bobwhite

35/23/2026

Mourning Dove

65/23/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

25/23/2026

Chimney Swift

25/23/2026

Killdeer

25/23/2026

Black Tern

105/23/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

15/23/2026

Great Blue Heron

35/23/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/23/2026

Bald Eagle

25/23/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

15/23/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

45/23/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/23/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/23/2026

Alder Flycatcher

15/23/2026

Eastern Phoebe

15/23/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

35/23/2026

Eastern Kingbird

25/23/2026

Bell's Vireo

25/23/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge include Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.