Lake birding habitat

Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 202 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Common Goldeneye, and Ring-billed Gull 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

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

8/23/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Big Creek spillway area6 observed

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

8/23/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Cherry Glen Recreation Area1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

8/23/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Cherry Glen Recreation Area2 observed

Red Knot

Calidris canutus

8/22/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Big Creek spillway area1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

8/22/20263927 Hull Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa, US (41.622, -93.538)1 observed

Pine Siskin

Spinus pinus

8/22/202611456 NW 117th Pl, Granger US-IA (41.7746,-93.7745)1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

8/22/2026Raccoon River Park15 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Turkey Vulture

18/16/2026

Osprey

18/16/2026

Purple Martin

88/16/2026

American Goldfinch

38/16/2026

Rock Pigeon

38/9/2026

Bald Eagle

28/9/2026

American Robin

18/9/2026

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 Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area for birding?
The best months to visit Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area?
Notable species at Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area include Canada Goose, Common Goldeneye, Ring-billed Gull, Bald Eagle, American Crow. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area?
Birding at Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area?
Purple Martin Lake Water Resource Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.