Urban Park birding habitat

Water Works Park, Des Moines

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Urban Park
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Water Works Park, Des Moines is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This urban park habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, 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

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

8/23/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Big Creek spillway area1 observed

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

8/23/2026Lakeshore Trail--Lincoln Access to Jester Park5 observed

Black-throated Green Warbler

Setophaga virens

8/23/2026Central Trails, Des Moines, Iowa, US (41.574, -93.682)1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

8/23/2026Big Creek SP1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

8/23/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Cherry Glen Recreation Area2 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

8/23/2026Renee's House Tree2 observed

Red Knot

Calidris canutus

8/22/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Big Creek spillway area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

268/17/2026

Common Nighthawk

208/17/2026

Chimney Swift

178/17/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

18/17/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

28/17/2026

Great Blue Heron

18/17/2026

Turkey Vulture

18/17/2026

Great Horned Owl

18/17/2026

Belted Kingfisher

18/17/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

38/17/2026

Downy Woodpecker

18/17/2026

Northern Flicker

18/17/2026

Eastern Phoebe

18/17/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

38/17/2026

Eastern Kingbird

18/17/2026

Blue Jay

28/17/2026

Barn Swallow

28/17/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

18/17/2026

European Starling

38/17/2026

Gray Catbird

48/17/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Visit at dawn for peak songbird activity before crowds arrive.

  2. 2

    Check flowering trees and berry-producing shrubs for seasonal migrants.

  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 Water Works Park, Des Moines for birding?
The best months to visit Water Works Park, Des Moines for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Water Works Park, Des Moines?
Notable species at Water Works Park, Des Moines include Canada Goose, Mallard, Ring-billed Gull, Bald Eagle, American Robin. The area supports urban park habitats.
How difficult is birding at Water Works Park, Des Moines?
Birding at Water Works Park, Des Moines is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Water Works Park, Des Moines?
Water Works Park, Des Moines offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.