Species Lists

Salt Plains NWR, located in north-central Oklahoma in Alfalfa County, was established in 1930 as a breeding ground and feeding area for migratory birds, primarily waterfowl. The refuge is also a home to many other mammals, plants, amphibians, reptiles, fish and invertebrates.

As a major migration rest area for hundreds of thousands of birds during spring, summer, and fall, the Salt Plains protects and manages a diversity of habitat. Migrants feed on the salt brine flies that hatch when water is available. Peak fall and spring migration of ducks, geese, and sandhill cranes on the refuge can number nearly 100,000 birds.

You are requested to report sightings of species not on our checklist or if they are listed as rare or accidental.

Many kinds of birds and mammals are found on the refuge year round. Species such as the white-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, and the cardinal are likely to be observed anytime.