Wetland birding habitat

Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge

North Carolina · Southeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in North Carolina, with 285 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, and Blue-winged Teal among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

105/22/2026

Hooded Merganser

25/22/2026

Mourning Dove

45/22/2026

Killdeer

15/22/2026

Laughing Gull

45/22/2026

Anhinga

35/22/2026

White Ibis

535/22/2026

Glossy Ibis

15/22/2026

Little Blue Heron

15/22/2026

Tricolored Heron

15/22/2026

Green Heron

25/22/2026

Great Egret

205/22/2026

Great Blue Heron

105/22/2026

Turkey Vulture

35/22/2026

Osprey

35/22/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

15/22/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/22/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/22/2026

Carolina Wren

15/22/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

25/22/2026

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge?
Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.