Wetland birding habitat

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 306 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, and Canada Goose among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

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

American Goldfinch

Spinus tristis

7/13/2026Bosque del Apache NWR (please use for checklists covering the entire refuge)2 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

7/13/2026Bosque del Apache NWR (please use for checklists covering the entire refuge)2 observed

Bronzed Cowbird

Molothrus aeneus

7/10/2026Bosque del Apache National wildlife refuge1 observed

Solitary Sandpiper

Tringa solitaria

7/9/2026Bosque del Apache NWR (please use for checklists covering the entire refuge)1 observed

Willet (Western)

Tringa semipalmata

7/3/2026Bosque del Apache NWR--Northern Management Units (Restricted Access)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Long-billed Curlew

17/10/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

17/10/2026

White-faced Ibis

307/10/2026

Common Black Hawk

17/10/2026

Swainson's Hawk

17/10/2026

White-winged Dove

17/7/2026

Mourning Dove

17/7/2026

Lesser Nighthawk

17/7/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

17/7/2026

Virginia Rail

17/7/2026

American Avocet

17/7/2026

Killdeer

17/7/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

17/7/2026

Least Sandpiper

17/7/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/7/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/7/2026

Black Phoebe

17/7/2026

Say's Phoebe

17/7/2026

Western Kingbird

17/7/2026

Bell's Vireo

17/7/2026

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

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop for birding?
The best months to visit Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop?
Notable species at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop include Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop?
Birding at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop?
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge - South Loop offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.