Jensen Marsh

Iowa · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Wetland

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

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

Greater White-fronted Goose Canada Goose Trumpeter Swan Wood Duck American Wigeon

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Black-throated Green Warbler

Setophaga virens

8/23/2026Central Trails, Des Moines, Iowa, US (41.574, -93.682)1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

8/22/2026Raccoon River Park15 observed

Canada Warbler

Cardellina canadensis

8/21/2026Ashworth and Greenwood Parks1 observed

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Corthylio calendula

8/21/2026Ashworth and Greenwood Parks1 observed

Swallow-tailed Kite

Elanoides forficatus

8/16/20261724 N John Wayne Dr, Winterset US-IA (41.3503,-94.0141)1 observed

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

Dendrocygna autumnalis

8/16/2026Bank Swallow Bend Wildlife Area1 observed

Alder Flycatcher

Empidonax alnorum

8/13/2026Ashworth and Greenwood Parks2 observed

Birding Tips

1
Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.
2
Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.
3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Iowa

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge

Missouri River refuge with spectacular fall Snow Goose migration and year-round birding.

Ada Hayden Heritage Park

Urban Park birding hotspot in Iowa with 274 recorded species.

Amana - Lily Pond

Lake birding hotspot in Iowa with 210 recorded species.

Iowa Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Iowa →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

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.