Wetland birding habitat

Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 212 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

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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

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

4/11/2026Red Rock Lakes NWR3 observed

Boreal Owl (Richardson's)

Aegolius funereus

4/4/2026Blue Creek Road3 observed

Pileated Woodpecker

Dryocopus pileatus

4/4/2026Blue Creek Road1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

44/11/2026

Canada Goose

4/11/2026

Trumpeter Swan

4/11/2026

Cinnamon Teal

4/11/2026

Northern Shoveler

4/11/2026

Gadwall

4/11/2026

Mallard

4/11/2026

Northern Pintail

4/11/2026

Canvasback

4/11/2026

Redhead

44/11/2026

Ring-necked Duck

244/11/2026

Lesser Scaup

4/11/2026

Bufflehead

44/11/2026

Common Goldeneye

44/11/2026

Barrow's Goldeneye

204/11/2026

Ruddy Duck

34/11/2026

Mourning Dove

14/11/2026

American Coot

4/11/2026

Sandhill Crane

44/11/2026

American Avocet

84/11/2026

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 Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Red Rock Lakes 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 Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge?
Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.