Forest birding habitat

Council Grove Lake

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
ForestLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Council Grove Lake is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 217 species recorded on eBird. This forest and lake habitat attracts American Wigeon, Common Goldeneye, and Red-breasted Merganser 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

Common Poorwill

Phalaenoptilus nuttallii

4/6/2026Tallgrass Prairie N PRES1 observed

Henslow's Sparrow

Centronyx henslowii

4/6/2026Tallgrass Prairie N PRES1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Fish Crow

14/16/2026

Harris's Sparrow

84/16/2026

Mourning Dove

34/16/2026

Franklin's Gull

5004/16/2026

Great Horned Owl

14/16/2026

Eastern Phoebe

34/16/2026

Blue Jay

14/16/2026

American Crow

14/16/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

14/16/2026

Tufted Titmouse

14/16/2026

American Robin

24/16/2026

Cedar Waxwing

34/16/2026

American Goldfinch

24/16/2026

Chipping Sparrow

34/16/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

14/16/2026

Northern Cardinal

34/16/2026

Cliff Swallow

4/15/2026

Canada Goose

14/15/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

14/15/2026

European Starling

64/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  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 Council Grove Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Council Grove Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Council Grove Lake?
Notable species at Council Grove Lake include American Wigeon, Common Goldeneye, Red-breasted Merganser, Ring-billed Gull, American Crow. The area supports forest, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Council Grove Lake?
Birding at Council Grove Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Council Grove Lake?
Council Grove Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.