Lake birding habitat

Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 203 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, and Greater White-fronted Goose 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

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

6/14/2026110th Ave Otley, IA2 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

6/14/2026Neal Smith NWR--Oak Savanna Trail1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Ring-necked Pheasant

16/14/2026

Mourning Dove

46/14/2026

Northern Flicker

16/14/2026

Bell's Vireo

26/14/2026

Tree Swallow

26/14/2026

Barn Swallow

26/14/2026

Cliff Swallow

26/14/2026

Northern House Wren

26/14/2026

European Starling

26/14/2026

Gray Catbird

26/14/2026

American Robin

66/14/2026

American Goldfinch

26/14/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

26/14/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

86/14/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

26/14/2026

Common Yellowthroat

66/14/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

16/14/2026

Northern Cardinal

26/14/2026

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

26/14/2026

Indigo Bunting

66/14/2026

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 - Boxcars area for birding?
The best months to visit Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area?
Notable species at Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area include Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Ring-necked Duck, Common Goldeneye. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area?
Birding at Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area?
Red Rock Reservoir - Boxcars area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.