Trumpeter Swans on a river with geysers steaming in Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park

Wyoming · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
ForestGrasslandMountainWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

May-July

Entrance Fee

$35 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Hours

Open 24 hours; some roads closed seasonally

About This Location

Yellowstone National Park's geothermal features and vast wilderness support over 300 bird species across a mosaic of grasslands, forests, and waterways. Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley are excellent for raptors and waterbirds, while higher elevations host boreal 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

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

7/16/2026Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park US-WY (44.4581,-110.5558)3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

67/20/2026

Lesser Scaup

177/20/2026

Bufflehead

67/20/2026

Barrow's Goldeneye

67/20/2026

Ruffed Grouse

17/20/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

27/20/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/20/2026

Osprey

17/20/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

27/20/2026

Common Raven

27/20/2026

Tree Swallow

27/20/2026

Violet-green Swallow

27/20/2026

Barn Swallow

47/20/2026

Mountain Bluebird

37/20/2026

American Robin

17/20/2026

Red Crossbill

27/20/2026

Pine Siskin

77/20/2026

Chipping Sparrow

67/20/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

37/20/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

47/20/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Lamar Valley at dawn offers the best raptor and owl sightings

  2. 2

    Check the thermal areas for unusual winter bird activity

  3. 3

    Visit during spring migration (April-May) for the greatest species diversity

  4. 4

    Arrive at dawn for peak bird activity, especially during migration seasons

  5. 5

    Bring waterproof boots and scan the marsh edges for rails, herons, and bitterns

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park for birding?
The best months to visit Yellowstone National Park for birding are May-July. The best seasons are Summer and Spring.
What birds can I see at Yellowstone National Park?
Notable species at Yellowstone National Park include Trumpeter Swan, Great Gray Owl, Bald Eagle, Sandhill Crane, American Dipper, Canada Goose, Mallard, Common Merganser, Clark's Nutcracker, Common Raven. The area supports forest, grassland, mountain, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Yellowstone National Park?
Birding at Yellowstone National Park is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Yellowstone National Park?
The entrance fee at Yellowstone National Park is $35 per vehicle (7-day pass). Hours: Open 24 hours; some roads closed seasonally.
What amenities are available at Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Visitor Center, Trails, Campground.