Wildlife Watching

Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge offers broad, open prairie landscapes and scattered wetlands that provide excellent opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife throughout the year. White‑tailed and mule deer are frequently seen moving through woody draws, wetland edges, and taller grasses, especially during early morning and evening hours. Moose may also be encountered in willow thickets and along lakes and wetlands, where they feed and rest.

Wetlands across the Refuge support muskrats and beavers, which can often be spotted swimming or feeding along shorelines. Coyotes are commonly observed crossing open prairie ridges or hunting in early and late daylight hours. Smaller mammals—such as ground squirrels, porcupines, and raccoons—are also present, and visitors may see them while driving or hiking through Refuge habitats.

During warmer months, painted turtles can be found along wetland edges, and chorus frogs and leopard frogs are active in marshy areas and grassy shoreline zones. Prairie reptiles such as garter snakes may occasionally be encountered in upland grasslands on sunny days.

Seasonal variation plays a big role in wildlife viewing. Spring and fall often bring increased movement and visibility for many mammals, while summer highlights amphibians, insects, and the vibrant diversity of prairie vegetation. Visitors can use the auto tour route, pull‑offs, and open spaces to quietly observe wildlife in their natural prairie setting.