Arrowwood Refuge Opens Sharp-Tailed Grouse Viewing Blind Reservations for Spring

Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge near Pingree is accepting reservations for two free sharp-tailed grouse viewing blinds, with dates available from April 4 through May 4, 2026, as the refuge's spring lek season draws near.

The blinds, managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, offer visitors a close look at one of the northern prairie's most striking natural events: the sharp-tailed grouse lek, where males gather at dawn to perform elaborate courtship displays on open ground. Both blinds are free to use, but reservations are required and must be made by calling Arrowwood refuge headquarters during normal business hours.

Arrowwood NWR stretches along the James River, encompassing mixed-grass prairie, marshes and lakes that support grouse, waterfowl and dozens of other species. The refuge's lek sites draw birders and photographers from across the region each spring, and the managed blind system keeps foot traffic off the breeding grounds while giving the public structured access to the display.

The Friends of Arrowwood and regional birding organizations have helped publicize the reservation opening. With only two blinds available across the entire April 4 to May 4 window, competition for dates is keen and early booking is strongly advised.

Lek viewings begin before dawn, when males arrive at their dancing grounds to compete for mates. Visitors should dress in warm layers for pre-dawn temperatures, bring binoculars, and carry a camera with a quiet shutter. Following refuge protocols inside the blind is essential to avoid flushing birds from the lek.

To reserve a blind, call Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge headquarters during normal business hours.