Lake birding habitat

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Bufflehead among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of 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

American Golden-Plover

Pluvialis dominica

6/14/2026Benton Lake NWR1 observed

Chimney Swift

Chaetura pelagica

6/12/2026Gibson Park1 observed

Semipalmated Plover

Charadrius semipalmatus

6/7/2026Benton Lake NWR1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

206/18/2026

Cinnamon Teal

106/18/2026

Northern Shoveler

556/18/2026

Gadwall

956/18/2026

Mallard

206/18/2026

Northern Pintail

26/18/2026

Green-winged Teal

86/18/2026

Redhead

256/18/2026

Ruddy Duck

66/18/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

26/18/2026

Mourning Dove

26/18/2026

American Coot

206/18/2026

Sandhill Crane

16/18/2026

Black-necked Stilt

76/18/2026

American Avocet

1256/18/2026

Killdeer

106/18/2026

Upland Sandpiper

46/18/2026

Long-billed Curlew

56/18/2026

Marbled Godwit

36/18/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

756/18/2026

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

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Mallard, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Sharp-tailed Grouse. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.