The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge

North Dakota · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird
Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in North Dakota, with 229 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

Great Blue HeronRed-winged BlackbirdMallardGreen HeronVirginia Rail

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Greater Scaup

Aythya marila

2/21/2026Garrison Dam Tailrace1 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.

Amenities

Parking
Restrooms
Trails
Auto Tour Route

More in North Dakota

J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge

North Dakota's largest refuge with rare grassland species and prairie pothole breeding birds.

Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge

Wetland birding hotspot in North Dakota with 233 recorded species.

Bowman-Haley Recreation Area

Grassland birding hotspot in North Dakota with 233 recorded species.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City: The Complete Urban Migration Guide

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

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