Wetland birding habitat

Nahant Marsh

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Nahant Marsh is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, and Hooded Merganser 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

Redhead

Aythya americana

6/19/2026Lock and Dam 14 (Illinois)1 observed

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

6/19/2026Lock and Dam 14 (Illinois)1 observed

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

6/19/2026Lock and Dam 14 (Illinois)1 observed

Black Tern

Chlidonias niger

6/16/2026Hennepin Canal Park and Lock 323 observed

Evening Grosbeak

Hesperiphona vespertina

6/11/20261200 90th Ave Ct W, Rock Island US-IL 41.42987, -90.583941 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

6/8/2026Howard’s End1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

206/15/2026

Wood Duck

26/15/2026

Mallard

56/15/2026

Mourning Dove

46/15/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

26/15/2026

Great Blue Heron

16/15/2026

American White Pelican

16/15/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

26/15/2026

Purple Martin

286/15/2026

Gray Catbird

36/15/2026

American Robin

86/15/2026

Song Sparrow

26/15/2026

Baltimore Oriole

26/15/2026

Common Yellowthroat

16/15/2026

Northern Cardinal

26/15/2026

Killdeer

16/13/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

16/13/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

36/13/2026

Green Heron

16/13/2026

Turkey Vulture

26/13/2026

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 Nahant Marsh for birding?
The best months to visit Nahant Marsh for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Nahant Marsh?
Notable species at Nahant Marsh include Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, Hooded Merganser, Mourning Dove, Sandhill Crane. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Nahant Marsh?
Birding at Nahant Marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Nahant Marsh?
Nahant Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.