Water Works Park, Des Moines

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Urban Park
Best Seasons
SpringFall
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

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

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

2/27/2026Iowa Capitol grounds1 observed

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

2/25/2026Saylorville Reservoir--Oak Grove Recreation Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

1003/4/2026

Mallard

43/4/2026

Ring-billed Gull

753/4/2026

Bald Eagle

23/4/2026

American Robin

403/4/2026

Northern Cardinal

43/4/2026

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.