Wetland birding habitat

Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 292 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Red-tailed Hawk, Western Bluebird, and Mountain Bluebird 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

Cactus Wren

Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus

7/15/2026FR 1950 at NM 64 (36.538, -104.837)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

87/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

47/19/2026

American Barn Owl

17/19/2026

Prairie Falcon

17/19/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

27/19/2026

Cassin's Kingbird

67/19/2026

Western Kingbird

67/19/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/19/2026

Common Raven

27/19/2026

Bushtit

27/19/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/19/2026

Northern Mockingbird

17/19/2026

Western Bluebird

27/19/2026

American Robin

27/19/2026

House Finch

47/19/2026

Lark Sparrow

47/19/2026

Savannah Sparrow

27/19/2026

Spotted Towhee

17/19/2026

Western Meadowlark

67/19/2026

Bullock's Oriole

27/19/2026

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 Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge include Red-tailed Hawk, Western Bluebird, Mountain Bluebird, Western Meadowlark, Snow Goose. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge?
Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.