Malheur National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

Responding to Camellia Ma: Hi. I have visited and worked at Malheur NWR Headquarters visitors center for many decades. The explosion of these bugs (known as Mormon crickets for the big part they played in Salt Lake City history) was a once in fifty year occurrence. You may have seen TV news reports in which similar swarms shut down US highways and interstates in Nevada during your Malheur visit. A more typical complaint at Malheur is mosquitoes, which provide vital food to the Spring migration birds. Good clothing and perhaps headgear netting is a good idea during the month of May and early June. Other times of the year are pretty much bug-free.
Mar 26th, 2024

Mar 5th, 2024

It's a very peaceful place to visit and view over 340 species of birds! If you love bird watching, this is the place for you! There are also some great viewing sites. My favorites are Buena Vista Ponds and Overlook, Krumbo Reservoir, Benson Pond, Knox Ponds.
Jan 25th, 2024

Eventhough it was closed for the season, it was pretty neat. There was a small museum there with birds and eggs and rodents.
Dec 1st, 2023

You would never know that the headquarters to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge would be a hidden oasis in the midst of ranch lands. We drove several miles on a washboard gravel road, thinking we missed this place. The milage on the sinage is a smidge off, or maybe it's our vehicle. On the perimeter of miles of wetlands frequented by migratory birds lies this place. A paved path from the parking area leads you into beautifully groomed grass and gardens. An interpretive center is there as is a cool little museum that has information on every migratory bird, their eggs, etc. The gift shop is worth a visit too! You can bird watch by sitting in the blinds that are available. Talk with the hosts who can inform you of recent bird sightings, or simply sit and enjoy all the bird activity around you. This was my first ever sighting of a great horned owl. It was a baby that the parents kept very busy feeding. Bring a lunch or snack and take your time there. A bird watchers paradise!
Jan 17th, 2024