Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 292 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Red-tailed Hawk, Western Bluebird, and Mountain Bluebird among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

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

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

2/28/2026Maxwell Feedlot1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

23/4/2026

Gadwall

63/4/2026

American Wigeon

63/4/2026

Mallard

43/4/2026

Northern Pintail

43/4/2026

Canvasback

13/4/2026

Redhead

43/4/2026

Lesser Scaup

103/4/2026

Bufflehead

303/4/2026

Ruddy Duck

153/4/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

23/4/2026

American Coot

3003/4/2026

Sandhill Crane

2003/4/2026

Killdeer

13/4/2026

Ring-billed Gull

53/4/2026

Northern Harrier

23/4/2026

Bald Eagle

13/4/2026

American Crow

123/4/2026

Common Raven

23/4/2026

Horned Lark

23/4/2026

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

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge include Red-tailed Hawk, Western Bluebird, Mountain Bluebird, Western Meadowlark, Snow Goose. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge?
Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.