Grassland birding habitat

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 218 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Mallard, Mourning Dove, and Red-bellied Woodpecker 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

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

6/15/2026Eagle Point (Grant Co.)1 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

6/15/2026Eagle Point (Grant Co.)1 observed

Northern Bobwhite

Colinus virginianus

6/11/2026Private Property No access1 observed

Dunlin

Calidris alpina

6/9/2026A.Y. McDonald Park1 observed

Franklin's Gull

Leucophaeus pipixcan

6/8/2026A.Y. McDonald Park1 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

6/6/2026Mines of Spain SRA--Prairie Ridge and Cedar Ridge Trails1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

26/19/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

16/19/2026

Great Blue Heron

16/19/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

16/19/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

16/19/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

16/19/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

16/19/2026

Carolina Wren

26/19/2026

Gray Catbird

36/19/2026

Wood Thrush

16/19/2026

American Robin

26/19/2026

Baltimore Oriole

16/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

26/19/2026

Prothonotary Warbler

36/19/2026

Common Yellowthroat

16/19/2026

American Redstart

106/19/2026

Cerulean Warbler

16/19/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

26/19/2026

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

36/19/2026

Indigo Bunting

16/19/2026

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 Mines of Spain State Recreation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Mines of Spain State Recreation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Mines of Spain State Recreation Area?
Notable species at Mines of Spain State Recreation Area include Mallard, Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, American Kestrel. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Mines of Spain State Recreation Area?
Birding at Mines of Spain State Recreation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Mines of Spain State Recreation Area?
Mines of Spain State Recreation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.