Lake birding habitat

Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 202 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Northern Pintail 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

Great Egret

Ardea alba

5/31/2026Dry Bridge Park Woodland Ave. Trail1 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

5/25/2026811–899 Ferndale Dr, Bigfork US-MT 48.06894, -113.993071 observed

Common Grackle

Quiscalus quiscula

5/25/2026Creston Wetland1 observed

Common Grackle (Bronzed)

Quiscalus quiscula

5/21/2026Casey Yard, Breezy Point, Somers, MT1 observed

Lesser Goldfinch

Spinus psaltria

5/20/2026Sonny Boon Memorial Trail1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

906/1/2026

Gadwall

26/1/2026

Mallard

226/1/2026

Sandhill Crane

16/1/2026

Killdeer

26/1/2026

Franklin's Gull

876/1/2026

Ring-billed Gull

586/1/2026

Eastern Kingbird

26/1/2026

Tree Swallow

16/1/2026

Barn Swallow

16/1/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

66/1/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

16/1/2026

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 Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area for birding?
The best months to visit Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area?
Notable species at Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area include Canada Goose, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area?
Birding at Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area?
Flathead Lake Waterfowl Production Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.