Wetland birding habitat

Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 297 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Red-tailed Hawk, Black-billed Magpie, and Common Raven 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

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

5/28/2026McAllister Lake WMA1 observed

Clay-colored Sparrow

Spizella pallida

5/27/2026Las Vegas NWR1 observed

Bufflehead

Bucephala albeola

5/24/2026McAllister Lake WMA1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

American Coot

65/29/2026

American Avocet

5/29/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

25/29/2026

Cinnamon Teal

155/28/2026

Gadwall

55/28/2026

Green-winged Teal

15/28/2026

Redhead

45/28/2026

Ring-necked Duck

15/28/2026

Ruddy Duck

405/28/2026

Killdeer

15/28/2026

Long-billed Curlew

25/28/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

35/28/2026

Franklin's Gull

75/28/2026

Eared Grebe

255/28/2026

Clark's Grebe

15/28/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

35/28/2026

White-faced Ibis

65/28/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

15/28/2026

American White Pelican

25/28/2026

Turkey Vulture

35/28/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge include Red-tailed Hawk, Black-billed Magpie, Common Raven, Golden-crowned Kinglet, American Robin. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge?
Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.