Coastal birding habitat

Green Island Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Green Island Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 274 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Canada Goose 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

Sanderling

Calidris alba

8/19/2026Big Slough Boat Ramp1 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

8/15/2026Upper Mississippi River NWR--Lost Mound (Carroll Co., public areas)1 observed

Northern Pintail

Anas acuta

8/13/2026Army Depot Rd. Marsh4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wild Turkey

58/21/2026

Rock Pigeon

88/21/2026

Mourning Dove

148/21/2026

Chimney Swift

38/21/2026

American White Pelican

48/21/2026

Turkey Vulture

108/21/2026

Bald Eagle

48/21/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

18/21/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

18/21/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

18/21/2026

Northern Flicker

38/21/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

28/21/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

18/21/2026

Eastern Phoebe

28/21/2026

Eastern Kingbird

98/21/2026

Blue Jay

38/21/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

38/21/2026

Barn Swallow

18/21/2026

American Robin

18/21/2026

Cedar Waxwing

78/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  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 Green Island Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Green Island Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Green Island Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Green Island Wildlife Management Area include Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, Gadwall. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Green Island Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Green Island Wildlife Management Area is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Green Island Wildlife Management Area?
Green Island Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.