Jensen Marsh

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Jensen Marsh is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 223 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Trumpeter Swan 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

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

3/5/2026Dale Maffitt Reservoir (Madison Co.)1 observed

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

2/28/2026Creston Ave4 observed

Greater Scaup

Aythya marila

2/28/2026Raccoon River Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

5203/6/2026

Ross's Goose

63/6/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

26003/6/2026

Canada Goose

1103/6/2026

Trumpeter Swan

473/6/2026

Wood Duck

83/6/2026

Northern Shoveler

43/6/2026

Gadwall

53/6/2026

American Wigeon

43/6/2026

Mallard

1503/6/2026

Northern Pintail

2403/6/2026

Green-winged Teal

443/6/2026

Redhead

33/6/2026

Ring-necked Duck

603/6/2026

Lesser Scaup

13/6/2026

Hooded Merganser

23/6/2026

Rock Pigeon

23/6/2026

American Coot

23/6/2026

Killdeer

53/6/2026

Ring-billed Gull

13/6/2026

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 Jensen Marsh for birding?
The best months to visit Jensen Marsh for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Jensen Marsh?
Notable species at Jensen Marsh include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Wood Duck, American Wigeon. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Jensen Marsh?
Birding at Jensen Marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Jensen Marsh?
Jensen Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.