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

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

4/10/2026Cardinal Marsh WMA1 observed

Northern House Wren

Troglodytes aedon

4/9/2026Palisades Park, Decorah1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

254/14/2026

Trumpeter Swan

24/14/2026

Wood Duck

14/14/2026

Blue-winged Teal

354/14/2026

Northern Shoveler

604/14/2026

Gadwall

354/14/2026

American Wigeon

184/14/2026

Mallard

144/14/2026

Green-winged Teal

804/14/2026

Redhead

24/14/2026

Ring-necked Duck

84/14/2026

Lesser Scaup

454/14/2026

Bufflehead

84/14/2026

Hooded Merganser

24/14/2026

Common Merganser

64/14/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

14/14/2026

Sora

14/14/2026

American Coot

3004/14/2026

Sandhill Crane

44/14/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

164/14/2026

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.