Lake birding habitat

Lake Shawnee

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Lake Shawnee is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 244 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Ring-necked Duck 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

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

5/31/2026Clinton Lake--Dam2 observed

Mourning Warbler

Geothlypis philadelphia

5/31/2026Felker Park1 observed

Broad-winged Hawk

Buteo platypterus

5/30/2026Kaw River SP1 observed

Ruddy Turnstone

Arenaria interpres

5/30/2026Clinton Lake--Bloomington East1 observed

Common Tern

Sterna hirundo

5/29/2026Clinton Lake--Bloomington East1 observed

Orange-crowned Warbler

Leiothlypis celata

5/24/2026Felker Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

15/31/2026

Mallard

25/31/2026

Mourning Dove

25/31/2026

Common Nighthawk

15/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/31/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/31/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

25/31/2026

Tufted Titmouse

15/31/2026

Purple Martin

85/31/2026

Gray Catbird

15/31/2026

Northern Mockingbird

15/31/2026

American Robin

45/31/2026

House Sparrow

45/31/2026

House Finch

35/31/2026

Orchard Oriole

15/31/2026

Baltimore Oriole

15/31/2026

Common Grackle

25/31/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/31/2026

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

15/31/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

55/29/2026

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 Lake Shawnee for birding?
The best months to visit Lake Shawnee for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Lake Shawnee?
Notable species at Lake Shawnee include Canada Goose, Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lake Shawnee?
Birding at Lake Shawnee is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lake Shawnee?
Lake Shawnee offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.