Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Northern Shoveler among many others. Coastal and forest habitats support impressive year-round resident species and seasonal migrants.

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

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

2/28/2026Julia Butler Hansen NWR--White-tail Trail2 observed

Band-tailed Pigeon

Patagioenas fasciata

2/28/2026Home, Svensen, Clatsop County, Oregon, US

Rufous Hummingbird

Selasphorus rufus

2/22/2026Home, Svensen, Clatsop County, Oregon, US1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Cackling Goose

2003/1/2026

Canada Goose

53/1/2026

Northern Shoveler

133/1/2026

American Wigeon

43/1/2026

Mallard

53/1/2026

Ring-necked Duck

43/1/2026

Bufflehead

23/1/2026

Common Goldeneye

13/1/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

13/1/2026

American Robin

43/1/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

63/1/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

93/1/2026

Tundra Swan

372/28/2026

Gadwall

182/28/2026

Northern Pintail

122/28/2026

Canvasback

12/28/2026

Lesser Scaup

122/28/2026

Hooded Merganser

22/28/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

12/28/2026

Ring-billed Gull

22/28/2026

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

    Pack rain gear — the best birding often coincides with drizzly conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge?
Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.