Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 284 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Canada Goose 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

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

2/28/2026Fountain Grove CA (Linn Co.)1 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

2/28/2026Fountain Grove CA (Linn Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

400002/23/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

5002/23/2026

Canada Goose

22/23/2026

Wood Duck

42/23/2026

Northern Shoveler

22/23/2026

Gadwall

102/23/2026

American Wigeon

12/23/2026

Mallard

4002/23/2026

Northern Pintail

502/23/2026

Green-winged Teal

82/23/2026

Ring-necked Duck

3002/23/2026

Lesser Scaup

102/23/2026

Bufflehead

402/23/2026

Common Goldeneye

102/23/2026

Hooded Merganser

272/23/2026

American Coot

1002/23/2026

Northern Harrier

12/23/2026

Bald Eagle

232/23/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

22/23/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

22/23/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge include Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.