Idaho’s diverse landscapes make it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. From lush forests to expansive wetlands, the state offers a variety of habitats that attract an impressive range of bird species.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, exploring Idaho’s birding sites is a delightful way to connect with nature and discover the state’s beauty.

Camas National Wildlife Refuge

Located in southeastern Idaho, the Camas National Wildlife Refuge spans over 10,500 acres and boasts the highest bird list in the state, with more than 260 species recorded. This refuge is a haven for waterfowl, raptors, sagebrush birds, and both migrant and nesting songbirds. Its diverse habitats make it a year-round destination for birdwatching.

Idaho Birding Trail

The Idaho Birding Trail features over 175 sites across four distinct regions. In northern Idaho, the dense forests are home to mountain chickadees, Townsend’s warblers, and Cassin’s finches. Further south, birders can find open grasslands, wetlands, and river corridors that attract owls, hawks, and a variety of songbirds.

Cassia Crossbill in Southern Idaho

Southern Idaho’s South Hills and Albion Mountains are the exclusive habitat of the Cassia Crossbill, a species officially recognized in 2017. This unique bird relies on lodgepole pine forests that lack red squirrels—its primary competition for food elsewhere. Spotting this rare bird is a special reward for birders exploring this beautiful region.

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

Near Bonners Ferry in northern Idaho, the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge offers over 2,700 acres of wetlands and forested uplands. It’s an excellent place to spot wood ducks, tundra swans, bald eagles, and great blue herons. Its scenic backdrop of the Selkirk Mountains makes this a must-see for any nature lover.

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge

Situated near Nampa in southwestern Idaho, the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge surrounds Lake Lowell and serves as a critical stopover for migrating birds along the Pacific Flyway. Expect to see everything from pelicans and grebes to sandhill cranes, kestrels, and dozens of duck species. The refuge also features a visitor center and well-maintained trails for easy access.

Market Lake and Mud Lake Wildlife Management Areas

In the eastern part of the state, Market Lake and Mud Lake WMAs are top destinations for spotting migrating waterfowl, shorebirds, and even elusive species like the American bittern. Spring and fall are especially active times here, offering a chance to witness huge flocks in flight.

Explore, Enjoy, and Engage With Nature

Birdwatching in Idaho offers more than just a chance to see rare and beautiful species—it provides a deeper connection to the landscapes that make Idaho so special. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful morning at a wetland refuge or taking the family on a hike along a forested trail, birding invites exploration and appreciation of the world around you.