Wetland birding habitat

Washita National Wildlife Refuge

Oklahoma · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Washita National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Oklahoma, with 200 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

Loading map...

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 Kestrel (Northern)

Falco sparverius

4/20/2026Oklahoma 33, Hammon, Oklahoma, US (35.674, -99.526)1 observed

Bald Eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

4/19/2026Foss State Park, Butler US-OK 35.57660, -99.221862 observed

Turkey Vulture (Northern)

Cathartes aura

4/19/2026Clinton Lake15 observed

Cave Swallow

Petrochelidon fulva

4/19/2026Clinton Lake3 observed

Common Grackle (Bronzed)

Quiscalus quiscula

4/19/2026Clinton Lake6 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

34/18/2026

Blue-winged Teal

44/18/2026

Northern Shoveler

404/18/2026

Wild Turkey

14/18/2026

Mourning Dove

24/18/2026

Sora

14/18/2026

American Coot

124/18/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

14/18/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

14/18/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

34/18/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/18/2026

American White Pelican

254/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

34/18/2026

Osprey

14/18/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

24/18/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

24/18/2026

Eastern Phoebe

14/18/2026

Eastern Kingbird

14/18/2026

Carolina Chickadee

14/18/2026

Bank Swallow

14/18/2026

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