Quivira is a premier site to view shorebirds in the interior United States.  As early as February, shorebirds start appearing in Quivira's wetlands on their northward migration.  By May, thousands of shorebirds put on a spectacular display, especially around the Big Salt Marsh area.  Over 35 species have been recorded at Quivira.

Here in central Kansas, many visitors are surprised and delighted to discover that Quivira attracts large numbers of herons and egrets each summer.  The Refuge's wetlands attract these large, often colorful, long-legged waders.  Quite often several species can be observed together. 

Originally created as a refuge for migratory waterfowl, Quivira abounds with ducks and geese most of the year.  The fall, however, can be the most spectacular season, with geese and ducks numbering in the hundreds of thousands at their peak in November.

Winter is the best time to view White-tailed Deer.  There are several hundred at Quivira, and during cooler days and/or near dusk, dozens can easily be viewed around the Refuge.