Wetland birding habitat

William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge

Oregon · West

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 261 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts American Wigeon, Mallard, and Lesser Scaup among many others. The diverse terrain supports both resident specialties and Pacific Flyway migrants throughout the year.

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

Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum

6/1/2026BBR -- FP181 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

65/31/2026

Wood Duck

25/31/2026

Gadwall

35/31/2026

Mallard

25/31/2026

Virginia Rail

25/31/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

15/31/2026

American Bittern

25/31/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/31/2026

Northern Harrier

15/31/2026

American Kestrel

15/31/2026

Steller's Jay

15/31/2026

Tree Swallow

45/31/2026

Violet-green Swallow

35/31/2026

Purple Martin

55/31/2026

Barn Swallow

25/31/2026

Marsh Wren

45/31/2026

Swainson's Thrush

55/31/2026

American Robin

25/31/2026

House Finch

25/31/2026

American Goldfinch

15/31/2026

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