Wetland birding habitat

Otter Creek Marsh Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
WetlandRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Otter Creek Marsh Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and river/riparian 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

Loading map...

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

Black-crowned Night Heron

Nycticorax nycticorax

4/7/2026Otter Creek Marsh WMA--Red Barn area2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/11/2026

Northern Shoveler

64/11/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

14/11/2026

American Coot

64/11/2026

Sandhill Crane

14/11/2026

Great Egret

14/11/2026

American White Pelican

114/11/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/11/2026

Bald Eagle

14/11/2026

Downy Woodpecker

14/11/2026

Northern Flicker

44/11/2026

American Kestrel

14/11/2026

European Starling

104/11/2026

Eastern Bluebird

14/11/2026

American Robin

14/11/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

54/11/2026

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