Midwest · Central Flyway

Birds in North Dakota

North Dakota's prairie pothole region produces more breeding ducks than anywhere else in the lower 48.

370+Bird species
3Habitat types
1Birding hotspots
3+Cities

Popular cities in North Dakota

Common Birds in North Dakota

The most frequently reported bird species across North Dakota. Click any bird for full profiles, photos, calls, and attraction tips.

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Backyard Birds in North Dakota

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in North Dakota. These are the species you're most likely to attract with the right food, plants, and habitat setup.

Find the right feeder →Bird-friendly plants →

Birds by Habitat in North Dakota

North Dakota spans 3 major habitat types. Explore birds adapted to each environment.

🌊Wetland BirdsMarsh, lake, and river species—waterfowl, herons, and shorebirds.
🌲Forest BirdsWoodland and canopy birds including woodpeckers, warblers, and owls.
🏙️Urban BirdsCity-adapted birds thriving in parks, gardens, and neighborhoods.

Top Bird Watching Spots in North Dakota

The best places to go bird watching in North Dakota, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.

1

Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge

Prairie pothole country—North America's duck factory.

Bird Calendar — North Dakota

What to expect each month: migration arrivals, departures, and seasonal highlights.

February
Steady winter residents
March
Steady winter residents
June
Steady winter residents
July
Steady winter residents
August
Steady winter residents
November
Steady winter residents
December
Steady winter residents

Explore neighboring states

About birding in North Dakota

North Dakota is located in the Midwest region of the United States and falls along the Central Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 370 bird species across 3 habitat types: wetland, forest, urban.

Whether you're a backyard birder in Fargo or planning a trip to Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in North Dakota.