Horicon National Wildlife Refuge

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Horicon National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 277 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

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

3/3/2026Horicon Marsh SWA--Education and Visitor Center1 observed

Mute Swan

Cygnus olor

3/2/2026Lime Rd, Eden1 observed

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

3/1/2026Campbell Dr (Timberline to Hilltop)1 observed

Glaucous Gull

Larus hyperboreus

2/24/2026Horicon Marsh SWA--Education and Visitor Center1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

2/21/2026Townline Road Corn Field, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, US (43.758, -88.524)1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

2/21/2026Townline Road Corn Field, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, US (43.758, -88.524)8 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

2/21/2026Townline Road Corn Field, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, US (43.758, -88.524)10 observed

Harris's Sparrow

Zonotrichia querula

2/21/2026Lakeside Park West, Fond du Lac US-WI (43.7952,-88.4588)1 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Horicon National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Horicon National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Horicon 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 Horicon National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge?
Horicon National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.