Wetland birding habitat

William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge - McFadden Marsh

Oregon · West

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge - McFadden Marsh is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 225 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Wood Duck 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

Redhead

Aythya americana

6/1/2026Philomath Sewage Ponds (restricted access)2 observed

Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum

6/1/2026William L. Finley NWR--Prairie Overlook1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

15/31/2026

Mallard

25/31/2026

Mourning Dove

25/31/2026

Killdeer

15/31/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

25/31/2026

Great Egret

55/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

35/31/2026

Bald Eagle

15/31/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

15/31/2026

American Crow

15/31/2026

Tree Swallow

75/31/2026

Barn Swallow

195/31/2026

Northern House Wren

15/31/2026

Marsh Wren

25/31/2026

Bewick's Wren

25/31/2026

American Robin

35/31/2026

American Goldfinch

25/31/2026

Song Sparrow

45/31/2026

Spotted Towhee

25/31/2026

Western Meadowlark

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 - McFadden Marsh for birding?
The best months to visit William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge - McFadden Marsh 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 - McFadden Marsh?
Notable species at William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge - McFadden Marsh include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge - McFadden Marsh?
Birding at William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge - McFadden Marsh 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 - McFadden Marsh?
William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge - McFadden Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.