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

Loading map...

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-eyed Vireo

Vireo griseus

8/23/2026Wickiup Hill Learning Center1 observed

Black-throated Green Warbler

Setophaga virens

8/23/2026Lake Macbride--South Arm1 observed

Yellow-throated Warbler

Setophaga dominica

8/23/2026Lake Macbride--South Arm1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

8/22/2026Pinicon Ridge Co. Park5 observed

Gray Partridge

Perdix perdix

8/20/2026Deal Rd. sod farm (private property)6 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

218/22/2026

Mallard

78/22/2026

Mourning Dove

18/22/2026

Killdeer

48/22/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

78/22/2026

Great Blue Heron

28/22/2026

Bald Eagle

18/22/2026

House Sparrow

18/22/2026

American Goldfinch

18/22/2026

Rock Pigeon

238/21/2026

American Avocet

98/21/2026

Ring-billed Gull

18/21/2026

American Robin

18/21/2026

Song Sparrow

28/21/2026

Forster's Tern

28/18/2026

Northern Cardinal

18/18/2026

European Starling

1208/15/2026

Gray Catbird

18/15/2026

Common Grackle

18/15/2026

Eastern Kingbird

18/10/2026

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.