Wetland birding habitat

Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge

Utah · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Utah, with 298 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Mallard among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

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

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

4/12/2026Fish Springs NWR1 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

4/12/2026Fish Springs NWR1 observed

Short-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus griseus

4/12/2026Fish Springs NWR5 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Mockingbird

14/15/2026

American Robin

14/15/2026

House Finch

54/15/2026

Chipping Sparrow

24/15/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

14/15/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

14/15/2026

Western Screech-Owl

14/14/2026

Canada Goose

224/12/2026

Cinnamon Teal

1344/12/2026

Northern Shoveler

374/12/2026

Gadwall

654/12/2026

American Wigeon

434/12/2026

Mallard

114/12/2026

Northern Pintail

24/12/2026

Green-winged Teal

264/12/2026

Canvasback

54/12/2026

Redhead

264/12/2026

Ring-necked Duck

34/12/2026

Lesser Scaup

14/12/2026

Bufflehead

74/12/2026

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

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Mallard, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge?
Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.