Lake birding habitat

South Twin Lake

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

South Twin Lake is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 229 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

Marsh Wren

Cistothorus palustris

4/15/2026Sunken Grove WMA2 observed

Gray Partridge

Perdix perdix

4/15/20262701–2709 Upland Ave, Rockwell City US-IA 42.39814, -94.514022 observed

Virginia Rail

Rallus limicola

4/10/2026Sunken Grove WMA2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

104/21/2026

Wood Duck

44/21/2026

Blue-winged Teal

704/21/2026

Northern Shoveler

1804/21/2026

Gadwall

1104/21/2026

Mallard

204/21/2026

Northern Pintail

24/21/2026

Green-winged Teal

904/21/2026

Redhead

14/21/2026

Ring-necked Duck

454/21/2026

Lesser Scaup

154/21/2026

Bufflehead

174/21/2026

Hooded Merganser

144/21/2026

Ruddy Duck

24/21/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

74/21/2026

Mourning Dove

34/21/2026

Virginia Rail

24/21/2026

Sora

74/21/2026

American Coot

14004/21/2026

Killdeer

34/21/2026

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