Wetland birding habitat

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

Hooded Warbler

Setophaga citrina

4/22/2026Ashworth and Greenwood Parks1 observed

Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum

4/12/2026Dale Maffitt Reservoir (Dallas Co.)1 observed

Caspian Tern

Hydroprogne caspia

4/11/2026Raccoon River Park2 observed

Orange-crowned Warbler

Leiothlypis celata

4/10/2026Ashworth and Greenwood Parks2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

94/20/2026

Trumpeter Swan

24/20/2026

Wood Duck

14/20/2026

Blue-winged Teal

504/20/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

34/20/2026

Sora

14/20/2026

American Coot

94/20/2026

Killdeer

14/20/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

14/20/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

24/20/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

44/20/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/20/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/20/2026

Tree Swallow

64/20/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

54/20/2026

Barn Swallow

24/20/2026

Northern House Wren

14/20/2026

American Robin

24/20/2026

Song Sparrow

14/20/2026

Swamp Sparrow

14/20/2026

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.