Lake birding habitat

Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
LakeRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 259 species recorded on eBird. This lake and river/riparian habitat attracts Mallard, Hooded Merganser, and Ring-billed Gull 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Great Blue Heron

18/24/2026

American White Pelican

8/24/2026

Canada Goose

48/24/2026

Blue-winged Teal

78/24/2026

Mallard

88/24/2026

Northern Pintail

28/24/2026

Killdeer

108/24/2026

Marbled Godwit

48/24/2026

Red-necked Phalarope

38/24/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

58/24/2026

Stilt Sandpiper

508/24/2026

Least Sandpiper

158/24/2026

Pectoral Sandpiper

1508/24/2026

Franklin's Gull

18/24/2026

Ring-billed Gull

1758/24/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

1508/24/2026

Great Egret

198/24/2026

Osprey

18/24/2026

Bald Eagle

18/24/2026

Barred Owl

18/24/2026

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 Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area for birding?
The best months to visit Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area?
Notable species at Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area include Mallard, Hooded Merganser, Ring-billed Gull, Bald Eagle, Belted Kingfisher. The area supports lake, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area?
Birding at Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area?
Saylorville Reservoir - Big Creek spillway area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.