Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 313 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Blue-winged Teal 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

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

2/22/2026Loess Bluffs NWR2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

2003/5/2026

Trumpeter Swan

1003/5/2026

Mallard

23/5/2026

Ring-necked Duck

503/5/2026

Hooded Merganser

53/5/2026

American Coot

203/5/2026

European Starling

13/5/2026

American Tree Sparrow

103/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

2003/5/2026

Ross's Goose

143/4/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

2503/4/2026

Northern Shoveler

143/4/2026

Gadwall

133/4/2026

Northern Pintail

83/4/2026

Bufflehead

103/4/2026

Common Goldeneye

603/4/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

33/4/2026

Bald Eagle

43/4/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

13/4/2026

Rough-legged Hawk

13/4/2026

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 Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge include Snow Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Blue-winged Teal, Mallard, Ring-necked Duck. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge?
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.