Birding
At Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge attracts more than 200 species of birds each year. From bald eagles to Sandhill cranes, red headed woodpeckers to waterfowl, the refuge provides a variety of habitat types to support a wide range of bird species.
Hours
Daily from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.
Locations
The Platte River Trail and the Sedge Meadows Trail and Overlook.
Know Before You Go
- Please refer to the full list of refuge rules and policies before visiting.
- Guided Bird Walks and other birding programs are offered throughout the year. These programs are free and open to all ages.
- Wildlife is most active during the early morning and evening hours, making these the best times for viewing.
- The best bird migration viewing opportunities typically occur during the first two weeks of May and the middle two weeks of October.
- June is peak nesting season, when adults are actively feeding young.
- Merlin, eBird and iNaturalist can be good resources to help with wildlife observation.
