Wetland birding habitat

Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog

Indiana · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog is a productive birding destination in Indiana, with 261 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and American Black Duck among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Willet (Western)

Tringa semipalmata

7/18/2026Miller Beach, Lake Street1 observed

Baird's Sandpiper

Calidris bairdii

7/16/2026Miller Beach, Lake Street1 observed

Laughing Gull

Leucophaeus atricilla

7/13/2026Michigan City Harbor1 observed

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

7/12/2026Grant St. Marsh1 observed

Sanderling

Calidris alba

7/12/2026Miller Beach, Lake Street1 observed

Marbled Godwit

Limosa fedoa

7/11/2026Miller Beach, Lake Street1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

27/19/2026

Sandhill Crane

27/19/2026

Ring-billed Gull

207/19/2026

American Herring Gull

107/19/2026

Caspian Tern

107/19/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

707/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

37/19/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/19/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

17/19/2026

Downy Woodpecker

37/19/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

17/19/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

37/19/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

27/19/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/19/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

27/19/2026

Blue Jay

27/19/2026

American Crow

37/19/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

47/19/2026

Tree Swallow

57/19/2026

Barn Swallow

107/19/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog for birding?
The best months to visit Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog?
Notable species at Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog include Canada Goose, Mallard, American Black Duck, Mallard x American Black Duck (hybrid), Green-winged Teal. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog?
Birding at Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog?
Indiana Dunes National Park - Cowles Bog offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.