The Binocular Site
Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, Minnesota
Established as a migratory waterfowl refuge in 1937, Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge is now comprised of 61,500 acres of wetlands, shrublands, forests, croplands, grasslands, and bogs. The refuge is located in northwest Minnesota, just 40 miles south of Manitoba.
Originally called the Mud Lake Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, the area was renamed in 1961 in recognition of Glacial Lake Agassiz, the large, post-glaciation era lake responsible for shaping the region's terrain. Every year, more than 20,000 people visit the refuge, many for the spectacular birding the area provides.
Agassiz Refuge boasts 294 species of birds, including black terns, bitterns, ring-necked ducks, Canada geese, and thousands of Franklin's gulls. Some species are migratory, while others use the refuge as a breeding ground. Agassiz is also home to wolves and moose.
The high numbers of waterfowl make Agassiz Refuge an ideal area to conduct wildlife censuses. More than 1,200 mallards are banded each year.
The state bird of Minnesota is the Common Loon and you can find a checklist for birding activities in Minnesota here.
The photo above was taken at Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge. You can learn more about this refuge by visting the official website here.
If you've visited Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, please take the time to share your experience and any tips or insight you have about this Minnesota birding location below.
Check out more birdwatching spots.
Average User Rating - None
Add Your Own Review