Wetland birding habitat

Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Wild Turkey 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

86/9/2026

Wood Duck

16/9/2026

Great Blue Heron

26/9/2026

Bald Eagle

16/9/2026

Belted Kingfisher

16/9/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

156/9/2026

Common Yellowthroat

56/9/2026

Dickcissel

26/9/2026

Mourning Dove

16/6/2026

Sandhill Crane

16/6/2026

Great Egret

16/6/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

16/6/2026

Gray Catbird

16/6/2026

American Robin

16/6/2026

Baltimore Oriole

16/6/2026

Common Grackle

16/6/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

16/6/2026

Scarlet Tanager

16/6/2026

Northern Cardinal

16/6/2026

Indigo Bunting

16/6/2026

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 Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area include Canada Goose, Mallard, Wild Turkey, Ring-necked Pheasant, Sandhill Crane. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.