Wetland birding habitat

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge

Oregon · West

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 314 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Canada Goose, and Trumpeter Swan among many others. The diverse terrain supports both resident specialties and Pacific Flyway migrants throughout the year.

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

Tennessee Warbler

Leiothlypis peregrina

5/29/2026Malheur NWR--Headquarters1 observed

Red-eyed Vireo

Vireo olivaceus

5/29/2026Malheur NWR--Headquarters1 observed

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

5/28/2026Center Patrol Rd, Princeton US-OR 43.13187, -118.873781 observed

Tricolored Blackbird

Agelaius tricolor

5/19/2026Malheur NWR--Headquarters1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Turkey Vulture

16/1/2026

Bald Eagle

26/1/2026

Willow Flycatcher

16/1/2026

American Robin

16/1/2026

Cedar Waxwing

16/1/2026

Song Sparrow

36/1/2026

Bullock's Oriole

26/1/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

16/1/2026

Cinnamon Teal

46/1/2026

Northern Shoveler

16/1/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

66/1/2026

Mourning Dove

26/1/2026

Common Nighthawk

16/1/2026

Killdeer

16/1/2026

Franklin's Gull

26/1/2026

California Gull

16/1/2026

Forster's Tern

16/1/2026

White-faced Ibis

86/1/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

26/1/2026

Great Egret

76/1/2026

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

    Early mornings provide the best light and bird activity along the coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Malheur National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Malheur National Wildlife Refuge for birding are March-May, September-November. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge include Snow Goose, Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Northern Pintail, Bufflehead. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge?
Malheur National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.