Lake birding habitat

Cedar Lake

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cedar Lake is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Mallard 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 Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

4/20/2026Pleasant Creek SRA (Linn Co.)1 observed

Caspian Tern

Hydroprogne caspia

4/20/2026Pleasant Creek SRA (Linn Co.)--bowl2 observed

White-eyed Vireo

Vireo griseus

4/20/2026Pleasant Creek SRA (Linn Co.)--bowl1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

4/19/2026Amana--Lily Pond2 observed

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

4/19/2026Wickiup Hill Learning Center1 observed

Northern Waterthrush

Parkesia noveboracensis

4/19/2026Hawkeye WMA--Greencastle Ave. causeway1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

144/18/2026

Mallard

14/18/2026

Ring-billed Gull

14/18/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

284/18/2026

American Robin

34/18/2026

House Sparrow

24/18/2026

Song Sparrow

14/18/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

14/18/2026

Common Grackle

64/18/2026

Lesser Scaup

64/11/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

14/11/2026

Ruddy Duck

54/11/2026

Rock Pigeon

24/11/2026

Mourning Dove

14/11/2026

American Coot

444/11/2026

Killdeer

14/11/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

84/11/2026

Tree Swallow

114/11/2026

European Starling

64/11/2026

House Finch

14/11/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Cedar Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Cedar Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cedar Lake?
Notable species at Cedar Lake include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Mallard, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cedar Lake?
Birding at Cedar Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cedar Lake?
Cedar Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.