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

Northern Bobwhite

17/19/2026

Great Egret

3507/19/2026

Great Blue Heron

267/19/2026

American White Pelican

9007/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

827/19/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

57/19/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/19/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/19/2026

Blue Jay

17/19/2026

American Crow

27/19/2026

Barn Swallow

97/19/2026

Carolina Wren

17/19/2026

Field Sparrow

17/19/2026

Song Sparrow

47/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

267/19/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

57/19/2026

Common Yellowthroat

177/19/2026

Northern Cardinal

37/19/2026

Indigo Bunting

137/19/2026

Dickcissel

267/19/2026

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.