Lake birding habitat

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge - Benson Pond

Oregon · West

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge - Benson Pond is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 258 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Gadwall 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

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

6/1/2026Page Springs Campground1 observed

Black-chinned x Calliope Hummingbird (hybrid)

Archilochus alexandri x Selasphorus calliope

5/31/2026Page Springs Campground1 observed

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

Selasphorus platycercus

5/30/2026Frenchglen (town)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

American Wigeon

16/1/2026

Green-winged Teal

16/1/2026

Hooded Merganser

16/1/2026

Common Merganser

76/1/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

16/1/2026

Mourning Dove

16/1/2026

Great Blue Heron

16/1/2026

American White Pelican

56/1/2026

Turkey Vulture

26/1/2026

Osprey

16/1/2026

Willow Flycatcher

16/1/2026

Eastern Kingbird

16/1/2026

Barn Swallow

26/1/2026

Cliff Swallow

16/1/2026

European Starling

36/1/2026

American Robin

26/1/2026

Song Sparrow

26/1/2026

Bullock's Oriole

16/1/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

66/1/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

16/1/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

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