Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 230 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Eastern Meadowlark

Sturnella magna

3/3/2026Big Creek SP1 observed

Greater Scaup

Aythya marila

3/3/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Polk City Wildlife Area6 observed

Redpoll

Acanthis flammea

3/3/2026Myerwood Dr2 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

3/1/202610626–10652 NW 100th St, Granger US-IA 41.75530, -93.756043 observed

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

3/1/2026Thomas Mitchell Park1 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

2/27/2026Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt--Chichaqua Bottoms Trail1 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

2/27/2026Iowa Capitol grounds1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt for birding?
The best months to visit Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt?
Notable species at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt include Eastern Meadowlark, Dickcissel, Grasshopper Sparrow, Northern Harrier, Bobolink. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt?
Birding at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt?
Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.