Wetland birding habitat

McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge

Texas · Southeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Texas, with 282 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Lesser Scaup, Sora, and Common Gallinule among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

85/24/2026

Mourning Dove

25/24/2026

Common Nighthawk

85/24/2026

Common Gallinule

75/24/2026

Purple Gallinule

15/24/2026

Black-necked Stilt

25/24/2026

Killdeer

25/24/2026

Black Tern

65/24/2026

Neotropic Cormorant

605/24/2026

Roseate Spoonbill

15/24/2026

Least Bittern

15/24/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

25/24/2026

Tricolored Heron

35/24/2026

Snowy Egret

15/24/2026

Green Heron

25/24/2026

Great Egret

15/24/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/24/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/24/2026

Northern Mockingbird

15/24/2026

Seaside Sparrow

25/24/2026

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge include Lesser Scaup, Sora, Common Gallinule, American Coot, Black-bellied Plover. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge?
McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.