Wetland birding habitat

Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 203 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Common Merganser

Mergus merganser

5/22/2026SV-032 observed

Bell's Vireo

Vireo bellii

5/19/2026BL-131 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

White-winged Dove

25/28/2026

Mourning Dove

45/28/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

65/28/2026

Say's Phoebe

15/28/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

15/28/2026

Chihuahuan Raven

15/28/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

45/28/2026

Barn Swallow

45/28/2026

House Finch

15/28/2026

Black-throated Sparrow

15/28/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

25/28/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

15/28/2026

Killdeer

15/28/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/28/2026

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

15/28/2026

Olive-sided Flycatcher

15/28/2026

Willow Flycatcher

15/28/2026

Cliff Swallow

25/28/2026

Bewick's Wren

15/28/2026

Phainopepla

25/28/2026

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