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

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

7/18/2026Malheur NWR--Narrows1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

17/18/2026

California Quail

17/18/2026

Rock Pigeon

157/18/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

67/18/2026

Mourning Dove

17/18/2026

Common Nighthawk

67/18/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

27/18/2026

Rufous Hummingbird

17/18/2026

Killdeer

27/18/2026

Wilson's Snipe

17/18/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

27/18/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/18/2026

Great Egret

67/18/2026

Great Blue Heron

57/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

77/18/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

37/18/2026

Say's Phoebe

27/18/2026

Western Kingbird

27/18/2026

Common Raven

17/18/2026

Bank Swallow

67/18/2026

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

    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.