The Birding Trail in South Dakota Where You’ll See Dozens of Bird Species in a Single Day

I really enjoy looking at birds and, sometimes, will even go out of my way to see or search for a particular species so I can take its photo. I think of myself less as a birder and more as an amateur wildlife photographer with a thing for owls and warblers (as well as plenty of other birds and mammals). When I travel to a new place, I will often check in at a local Audubon center to see what kinds of birds I might expect to find. Although there's not an official Audubon center in South Dakota, the Mount Rushmore State is home to an active chapter of the organization that's dedicated to protecting and conserving the state's wildlife.

The Prairie Hills Audubon Society's territory comprises much of South Dakota west of the Missouri River and includes such incredible places as the Black Hills National Forest, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and Badlands National Park. The organization holds all sorts of meet-ups and events throughout the region. Be sure to visit its website or the Prairie Hill Audubon Society Facebook page to learn more about events and its conservation efforts, which include species ranging from mountain lions to sage grouse.

With so much diverse habitat lying within the Central Flyway migration route, the western third of South Dakota attracts more than 350 different species of birds, including 200 types that nest here. As far as getting out and seeing birds in the Prairie Hill Audubon Society's territory, there's probably not a better way to do so than the Black Hills, Badlands, and Lakes Birding Trail. A joint effort between state and federal agencies, as well as several conservation groups, the trail stretches from the North Cave Hills southward to Limestone Butte Lake, and from the state's western border as far east as the Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge.

If you spend a day or two along the trail, especially during spring or fall migration or during early summer nesting season, you're bound to see dozens of bird species, ranging from the common to the more rare visitors. Just be sure to bring along a good pair of binoculars.

Those not from the area will definitely want to spend a couple of days exploring the trail. I recommend setting up base camp in the charming town of Custer. It's centrally located to much of the trail and to many of the area's parks and attractions - and there are plenty of places to grab a meal or a drink, as well. Visit the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks website for more information about birding in the area, as well as a map and brochure of the Black Hills, Badlands, and Lakes Birding Trail. Do you have a favorite birding spot in South Dakota? Be sure to tell us about it!