
Hundreds of pothole lakes, dozens of rushing rivers, and miles of sprawling prairie make South Dakota an ideal destination for birding. Trails across the state wind through public and protected habitats, such as the Lake Andes Wildlife Refuge (home to the annual South Dakota Birding Festival) and the Waubay National Wildlife Refuge, and bring avian aficionados close enough for some great encounters.

Prairie Chickens

Merriam's Wild Turkeys

Black-billed Magpie

Long-eared Owl

Great Blue Heron

American White Pelicans

Chinese Ring-necked Pheasant

Black-headed Grosbeak

Meadowlark

Mountain Bluebird

Red-headed Woodpecker

Mourning Dove

Great Egret

Sharp-tailed Grouse

Mallard and Wood Ducks