Bayou Sauvage's marshes and waterways provide food and shelter for over 340 species of birds. From pelicans to phalaropes, buntings to buffleheads, there are always birds to see and hear on the refuge. The refuge's habitats — bottomland hardwood forest, freshwater and brackish marsh, lagoons, canals, and bayous — provide for the needs of 340 species of birds. Thousands of waterfowl may be seen in late winter and spring. Wading birds are seen year-round. For many neotropical migrant birds, the refuge is the last stop-over on the Mississippi Flyway before they cross the Gulf of Mexico.
Where to look for birds
Joe Madere Marsh Overlook: Located on US 90. Look for waterfowl and shorebirds such as black-necked stilts and avocets in the shallow water and mudflats.
Ridge Trail boardwalk: Also on US 90. This half-mile-long boardwalk winds through a remnant forest* that survived Hurricane Katrina and is being restored. Ibis, kites, raptors, and songbirds may be spotted on this walk. Look for egrets, herons and ibis near the water impoundment behind the water control structure structure
Something temporarily or permanently constructed, built, or placed; and constructed of natural or manufactured parts including, but not limited to, a building, shed, cabin, porch, bridge, walkway, stair steps, sign, landing, platform, dock, rack, fence, telecommunication device, antennae, fish cleaning table, satellite dish/mount, or well head.
Learn more about structure between the parking lot and US 90.
See what birds are being spotted where before you visit by checking out Cornell's eBird Tracker
