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

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

8/17/2026Spillville Ponds4 observed

Clay-colored Sparrow

Spizella pallida

8/14/2026Neste Valley Recreation Area2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

88/20/2026

Blue-winged Teal

28/20/2026

Mallard

68/20/2026

Mourning Dove

18/20/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

18/20/2026

Sandhill Crane

38/20/2026

Killdeer

48/20/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

18/20/2026

Pectoral Sandpiper

18/20/2026

Green Heron

28/20/2026

Great Blue Heron

18/20/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

18/20/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

18/20/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

18/20/2026

Northern Flicker

18/20/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

18/20/2026

Eastern Kingbird

28/20/2026

Blue Jay

18/20/2026

American Crow

18/20/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

18/20/2026

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.