Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

Louisiana · Southeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Louisiana, with 235 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Red-bellied Woodpecker, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, and Tufted Titmouse among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

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

Yellow-throated Warbler

Setophaga dominica

3/5/2026Rouchon House - Pearl River3 observed

Painted Bunting

Passerina ciris

3/4/2026401 Crescentwood Loop, Slidell US-LA 30.30505, -89.769991 observed

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

3/2/202615159–15199 Intracoastal Dr, New Orleans US-LA 30.01653, -89.902431 observed

Brown-crested Flycatcher

Myiarchus tyrannulus

3/2/2026Industrial Pkwy1 observed

Calliope Hummingbird

Selasphorus calliope

3/2/2026Abita Springs, Yard1 observed

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Myiarchus cinerascens

3/1/2026Industrial Pkwy1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

2/27/2026Big Branch Marsh NWR--Lake Rd.2 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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge include Red-bellied Woodpecker, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Tufted Titmouse, Tree Swallow, Brown-headed Nuthatch. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge?
Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.