Wetland birding habitat

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 246 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Gadwall, Northern Pintail, and Green-winged Teal 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

5/31/20265057 Hoblitt Ln N, Florence US-MT 46.60157, -114.088721 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

16/2/2026

Northern Shoveler

6/2/2026

Gadwall

6/2/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

26/2/2026

Killdeer

16/2/2026

Ring-billed Gull

26/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

16/2/2026

Great Blue Heron

26/2/2026

Northern Flicker

16/2/2026

Willow Flycatcher

16/2/2026

Black-billed Magpie

46/2/2026

Common Raven

16/2/2026

Bank Swallow

6/2/2026

Tree Swallow

86/2/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

26/2/2026

Marsh Wren

16/2/2026

European Starling

16/2/2026

House Sparrow

16/2/2026

Red Crossbill

26/2/2026

Song Sparrow

16/2/2026

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 Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge include Gadwall, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Common Goldeneye, Barrow's Goldeneye. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge?
Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.