Desert wetland landscape at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge

Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge

Nevada · Southwest

Habitat
WetlandDesertMarsh
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, August-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Dawn to dusk daily

About This Location

Stillwater NWR is a critical Great Basin oasis in the Lahontan Valley of western Nevada, providing vital wetland habitat in an otherwise arid landscape. The refuge supports over 280 species and serves as an important stop along the Pacific Flyway.

When water levels are favorable, the refuge attracts impressive numbers of White-faced Ibis, American Avocets, and other shorebirds. The surrounding desert and alkali flats add species like Sage Thrasher and Burrowing Owl to the diverse bird list.

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

Vermilion Flycatcher

Pyrocephalus rubinus

4/4/2026Churchill County Cemetery1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Cinnamon Teal

14/14/2026

Northern Shoveler

14/14/2026

Gadwall

54/14/2026

Mallard

84/14/2026

Northern Pintail

104/14/2026

Redhead

14/14/2026

Ring-necked Duck

34/14/2026

Bufflehead

14/14/2026

Ruddy Duck

104/14/2026

Mourning Dove

14/14/2026

American Coot

424/14/2026

American Avocet

284/14/2026

Killdeer

14/14/2026

White-faced Ibis

54/14/2026

Great Egret

14/14/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/14/2026

Turkey Vulture

24/14/2026

Great Horned Owl

44/14/2026

American Kestrel

14/14/2026

Say's Phoebe

14/14/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check water conditions before visiting — bird concentrations depend heavily on water levels

  2. 2

    A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for some refuge roads

  3. 3

    Visit during spring migration (April-May) for the greatest species diversity

  4. 4

    Fall migration (September-October) brings waves of southbound warblers and raptors

  5. 5

    Arrive at dawn for peak bird activity, especially during migration seasons

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, August-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge include White-faced Ibis, American Avocet, Snowy Plover, Long-billed Curlew, Canvasback, Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall. The area supports wetland, desert, marsh habitats.
How difficult is birding at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge?
There is no entrance fee at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge. Hours: Dawn to dusk daily.
What amenities are available at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge?
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking.