Quivira National Wildlife Refuge - Big Salt Marsh

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge - Big Salt Marsh is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 275 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

American Avocet

Recurvirostra americana

3/4/2026Auto selected 38.10410, -98.489772 observed

American Bittern

Botaurus lentiginosus

2/21/2026NE 170th St, Ellinwood US-KS 38.20172, -98.518221 observed

Cinnamon Teal

Spatula cyanoptera

2/21/2026Quivira NWR--NE 140th St. Marsh1 observed

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

2/21/2026Quivira NWR--Migrant's Mile & Park Smith Lake1 observed

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