Wetland birding habitat

Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 260 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Cinnamon Teal

Spatula cyanoptera

4/6/2026Bowdoin NWR--third 5 mi. Auto Tour Route3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

74/6/2026

Northern Shoveler

424/6/2026

Gadwall

44/6/2026

American Wigeon

64/6/2026

Mallard

84/6/2026

Northern Pintail

74/6/2026

Canvasback

164/6/2026

Redhead

24/6/2026

Ring-necked Duck

44/6/2026

Lesser Scaup

44/6/2026

Common Goldeneye

34/6/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

14/6/2026

Cinnamon Teal

34/6/2026

Green-winged Teal

904/6/2026

Sharp-tailed Grouse

14/6/2026

Killdeer

14/6/2026

Ring-billed Gull

164/6/2026

Northern Harrier

14/6/2026

American Kestrel

14/6/2026

Horned Lark

44/6/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge?
Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.