Wetland birding habitat

Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 238 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and American Wigeon 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

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

7/14/2026Red Sleep Mountain Dr, Dixon US-MT 47.35537, -114.266301 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

7/7/2026Ninepipe Rd1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

47/18/2026

Mourning Dove

17/18/2026

American Coot

77/18/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

37/18/2026

Ring-billed Gull

107/18/2026

Caspian Tern

17/18/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

17/18/2026

Western Grebe

137/18/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

67/18/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/18/2026

American White Pelican

47/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/18/2026

Osprey

17/18/2026

Northern Harrier

17/18/2026

American Kestrel

17/18/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

27/18/2026

Eastern Kingbird

67/18/2026

Barn Swallow

17/18/2026

Marsh Wren

17/18/2026

European Starling

207/18/2026

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 Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, American Wigeon, Mallard, Northern Pintail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge?
Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.