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

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Canada Warbler

Cardellina canadensis

8/19/2026Grammer Grove Wildlife Area1 observed

Blackburnian Warbler

Setophaga fusca

8/18/2026Pine Lake SP1 observed

Alder Flycatcher

Empidonax alnorum

8/9/2026140th St grasslands, Zearing1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Barn Swallow

18/18/2026

American Robin

18/18/2026

Mallard

58/18/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

18/18/2026

Forster's Tern

18/18/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

28/18/2026

Green Heron

18/18/2026

Great Blue Heron

38/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

168/18/2026

Downy Woodpecker

18/18/2026

Gray Catbird

58/18/2026

Eastern Bluebird

18/18/2026

American Goldfinch

18/18/2026

American Redstart

18/18/2026

Blackburnian Warbler

18/18/2026

Canada Warbler

18/18/2026

Northern Cardinal

48/18/2026

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.