Lake birding habitat

Pine Lake State Park

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Pine Lake State Park is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 218 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

96/18/2026

Mourning Dove

36/18/2026

Chimney Swift

36/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

36/18/2026

Belted Kingfisher

16/18/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

16/18/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

46/18/2026

Downy Woodpecker

96/18/2026

Northern Flicker

16/18/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

36/18/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

36/18/2026

Blue Jay

46/18/2026

American Crow

16/18/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

86/18/2026

Cliff Swallow

366/18/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

126/18/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

36/18/2026

Northern House Wren

166/18/2026

European Starling

26/18/2026

Gray Catbird

76/18/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Pine Lake State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Pine Lake State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Pine Lake State Park?
Notable species at Pine Lake State Park include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pine Lake State Park?
Birding at Pine Lake State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Pine Lake State Park?
Pine Lake State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.