Wildlife Viewing

The Odessa Complex is centrally located along the Mississippi Flyway, a major route for migratory birds, affording visitors an excellent opportunity to see wildlife throughout the year. Over 200 species of birds visit the Complex throughout the year with October, November, March, and April being the best months to see large concentrations of waterfowl. Warbler migrations usually peak around the first week of May. August is usually the best viewing time for shorebirds. Bald eagles are common in fall and winter and increasingly common in spring and summer as nesting increases on the Complex. Herons, pelicans and egrets are commonly seen during the summer feeding in Complex wetlands. Deer, squirrel, raccoon, muskrat, turkey, otter, beaver, skunk, and opossum are year-round residents, but not always easy to spot. Shorelines are a good place to look for most of these species while paddling the area, in addition to the wide variety of turtles, frogs and snakes found here.

Visitors are encouraged to walk the trails, levees, and service roads of the Odessa Complex as well as visiting the headquarters of the Port Louisa NWR to view the diverse fauna and flora of the area. The road that borders the north end of the Refuge (120th Street) is especially popular to view waterfowl in spring and fall, and concentrations of deer in the winter. For photographers and viewers alike, portable photo blinds can be checked out from Port Louisa NWR for use throughout the Complex when access is allowed. Call ahead for availability.