Wetland birding habitat

Horicon National Wildlife Refuge

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Horicon National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 277 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse 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

Alder Flycatcher

Empidonax alnorum

7/17/2026Home: W2640 Middle Road1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

7/7/20266th St - Main/Marr1 observed

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

7/7/2026Unnamed Road, Horicon, Wisconsin, US (43.474, -88.608)

Dunlin

Calidris alpina

7/6/2026Old Marsh Road1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Ruddy Duck

17/17/2026

Mourning Dove

17/17/2026

Chimney Swift

17/17/2026

Sandhill Crane

47/17/2026

Killdeer

17/17/2026

Black Tern

27/17/2026

Great Egret

17/17/2026

Bald Eagle

17/17/2026

Northern Flicker

17/17/2026

Purple Martin

37/17/2026

Marsh Wren

17/17/2026

European Starling

17/17/2026

Gray Catbird

17/17/2026

American Robin

17/17/2026

American Goldfinch

37/17/2026

Song Sparrow

27/17/2026

Swamp Sparrow

47/17/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/17/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/17/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

17/17/2026

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

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Horicon National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Horicon National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge?
Horicon National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.