Wetland birding habitat

Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge (Oregon)

Oregon · West

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge (Oregon) is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Canada Goose, 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

Bufflehead

Bucephala albeola

7/19/2026McNary Lock and Dam (Benton County)1 observed

Northern Pintail

Anas acuta

7/19/2026Umatilla NWR (Washington)1 observed

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

7/19/2026Umatilla NWR (Washington)1 observed

Common Yellowthroat

Geothlypis trichas

7/17/2026Irrigon Wildlife Viewing Area7 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

87/17/2026

Mallard

17/17/2026

California Quail

47/17/2026

Mourning Dove

117/17/2026

Killdeer

17/17/2026

Caspian Tern

17/17/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

27/17/2026

Great Egret

27/17/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/17/2026

American White Pelican

17/17/2026

Osprey

17/17/2026

Bald Eagle

17/17/2026

Swainson's Hawk

17/17/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/17/2026

American Kestrel

37/17/2026

Western Kingbird

17/17/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/17/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

27/17/2026

Bank Swallow

17/17/2026

Barn Swallow

77/17/2026

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