Forest birding habitat

Big Woods Lake Recreation Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
ForestLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Big Woods Lake Recreation Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This forest and lake habitat attracts Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck, and Greater Scaup 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

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

8/21/2026Big Woods Lake Recreation Area1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

8/21/2026Elk Run Heights House2 observed

Northern Waterthrush

Parkesia noveboracensis

8/13/2026Sans Souci Island1 observed

Alder Flycatcher

Empidonax alnorum

8/12/2026Big Woods Lake Recreation Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

18/21/2026

Barn Swallow

28/21/2026

Cedar Waxwing

18/21/2026

American Goldfinch

18/21/2026

Blue Grosbeak

18/21/2026

Eastern Kingbird

18/17/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

18/17/2026

Northern House Wren

28/17/2026

Song Sparrow

18/17/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

58/17/2026

Canada Goose

38/12/2026

Wild Turkey

18/12/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

18/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

48/12/2026

Osprey

18/12/2026

Bald Eagle

18/12/2026

Belted Kingfisher

18/12/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

28/12/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

28/12/2026

Alder Flycatcher

18/12/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  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 Big Woods Lake Recreation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Big Woods Lake Recreation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Big Woods Lake Recreation Area?
Notable species at Big Woods Lake Recreation Area include Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup, Hooded Merganser, Common Merganser. The area supports forest, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Woods Lake Recreation Area?
Birding at Big Woods Lake Recreation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Big Woods Lake Recreation Area?
Big Woods Lake Recreation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.