Lake birding habitat

Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Nebraska · Midwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Nebraska, with 255 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

36/2/2026

Northern Shoveler

26/2/2026

Redhead

26/2/2026

Mourning Dove

36/2/2026

American Avocet

316/2/2026

Killdeer

26/2/2026

Ring-billed Gull

26/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

126/2/2026

American White Pelican

246/2/2026

Yellow-headed Blackbird

36/2/2026

Western Meadowlark

26/2/2026

Orchard Oriole

26/2/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

66/2/2026

Eared Grebe

25/29/2026

Gadwall

25/29/2026

Mallard

75/29/2026

Green-winged Teal

35/29/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

25/29/2026

Black-necked Stilt

65/29/2026

Long-billed Curlew

15/29/2026

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

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.