Wetland birding habitat

Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Northern Shoveler among many others. Coastal and forest habitats support impressive year-round resident species and seasonal migrants.

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

Black-bellied Plover

Pluvialis squatarola

7/17/2026Mouth of Crooked Creek1 observed

Bullock's Oriole

Icterus bullockii

7/14/2026Westport Ferry Road2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Band-tailed Pigeon

57/21/2026

Mourning Dove

17/21/2026

American White Pelican

97/21/2026

Turkey Vulture

27/21/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/21/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/21/2026

Western Flycatcher

17/21/2026

American Crow

37/21/2026

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

27/21/2026

Tree Swallow

37/21/2026

Purple Martin

27/21/2026

Barn Swallow

17/21/2026

Marsh Wren

17/21/2026

Swainson's Thrush

47/21/2026

American Robin

37/21/2026

Cedar Waxwing

37/21/2026

American Goldfinch

57/21/2026

Song Sparrow

57/21/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

37/21/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

17/21/2026

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

    Pack rain gear — the best birding often coincides with drizzly conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge?
Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.