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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

2004/12/2026

Northern Shoveler

1504/12/2026

Gadwall

34/12/2026

Mallard

34/12/2026

Green-winged Teal

404/12/2026

Ring-necked Duck

24/12/2026

American Coot

1504/12/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

754/12/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

504/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/12/2026

Bald Eagle

14/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

104/12/2026

Northern Cardinal

24/12/2026

Canada Goose

64/7/2026

Wood Duck

74/7/2026

Lesser Scaup

54/7/2026

Bufflehead

14/7/2026

Wild Turkey

54/7/2026

Mourning Dove

24/7/2026

American Golden-Plover

10004/7/2026

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.