Wetland birding habitat

Valentine National Wildlife Refuge

Nebraska · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Nebraska, with 230 species recorded on eBird. This 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

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Hudsonian Godwit

Limosa haemastica

5/23/2026South Marsh Lake, Valentine US-NE (42.5166,-100.4976)1 observed

Prairie Falcon

Falco mexicanus

5/21/2026Valentine NWR--Pony Lake Road1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wild Turkey

15/28/2026

Killdeer

45/28/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

45/28/2026

Willet

15/28/2026

White-rumped Sandpiper

25/28/2026

Willow Flycatcher

15/28/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/28/2026

Bell's Vireo

25/28/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/28/2026

Tree Swallow

15/28/2026

Brown Thrasher

15/28/2026

Yellow-headed Blackbird

65/28/2026

Western Meadowlark

15/28/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

245/28/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

25/28/2026

Common Grackle

35/28/2026

Common Yellowthroat

15/28/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

25/28/2026

Trumpeter Swan

25/28/2026

Mallard

15/28/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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