The 6.08-million-acre Coteau Prairie Ecosystem contains many unique features that makes it one of the most important areas for migratory birds in North America. Wetland densities can exceed 150 basins per square mile.

The highest known nesting densities of mallards have been recorded within the Coteau Prairie Ecosystem. It contains nesting habitat of nearly 10% of the Great Plains population of federally threatened piping plover. And the highest known densities of plains sharp-tailed grouse in North America are evidence to the vast expanses of native prairie that still exist in this area.

Within the Coteau Prairie Ecosystem lies the 28,000-acre Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge, a birdwatcher's paradise that is home to Baird's sparrows, LeConte's sparrows, and Sprague's pipits.