Lake birding habitat

Red Rock Reservoir

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Red Rock Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 284 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

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

4/17/2026Creek East of Basswood1 observed

Forster's Tern

Sterna forsteri

4/11/2026Red Rock Reservoir--below dam (North and South Tailwater, Ivan's, and Howell Station recreation areas)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Double-crested Cormorant

24/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

24/19/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/19/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

14/19/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

34/19/2026

Blue Jay

14/19/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

24/19/2026

Eastern Bluebird

24/19/2026

American Robin

14/19/2026

House Finch

24/19/2026

Chipping Sparrow

14/19/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

34/19/2026

Northern Cardinal

34/19/2026

Canada Goose

94/19/2026

Rock Pigeon

204/19/2026

Ring-billed Gull

14/19/2026

American Herring Gull

14/19/2026

Common Loon

24/19/2026

American White Pelican

2504/19/2026

Osprey

14/19/2026

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 Red Rock Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Red Rock Reservoir for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Red Rock Reservoir?
Notable species at Red Rock Reservoir include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Red Rock Reservoir?
Birding at Red Rock Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Red Rock Reservoir?
Red Rock Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.