Lake birding habitat

Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 233 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Mourning Dove 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

Mourning Dove

18/23/2026

Great Egret

38/23/2026

Great Blue Heron

68/23/2026

Turkey Vulture

18/23/2026

Barred Owl

18/23/2026

Downy Woodpecker

18/23/2026

Blue Jay

28/23/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

18/23/2026

Gray Catbird

38/23/2026

American Robin

48/23/2026

American Goldfinch

58/23/2026

Northern Cardinal

18/23/2026

Ring-billed Gull

28/17/2026

Osprey

18/17/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

28/17/2026

Mallard

28/17/2026

Common Nighthawk

38/17/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

28/17/2026

Killdeer

18/17/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

38/17/2026

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 - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area?
Notable species at Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area include Canada Goose, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Ring-billed Gull, Bald Eagle. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area?
Birding at Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area?
Saylorville Reservoir - overflow spillway and Bob Shetler Recreation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.