Saylorville Reservoir

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Saylorville Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 305 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

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

3/5/2026Dale Maffitt Reservoir (Madison Co.)1 observed

Eastern Meadowlark

Sturnella magna

3/3/2026Big Creek SP1 observed

Greater Scaup

Aythya marila

3/3/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Polk City Wildlife Area6 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

3/1/202610626–10652 NW 100th St, Granger US-IA 41.75530, -93.756043 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

3/1/2026Marsh Farm Wetland (private property)2 observed

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

2/28/2026Creston Ave4 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

2/27/2026Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt--Chichaqua Bottoms Trail1 observed

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