Lake birding habitat

Wilson Lake

Kansas · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Wilson Lake is a productive birding destination in Kansas, with 236 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

Eastern Whip-poor-will

Antrostomus vociferus

4/9/2026US-KS-Dorrance-20492 Lincoln Rd - 38.7861x-98.49211 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

4/4/2026Fossil Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/14/2026

Blue-winged Teal

44/14/2026

Killdeer

44/14/2026

Least Sandpiper

64/14/2026

Ring-billed Gull

14/14/2026

Common Loon

14/14/2026

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

14/14/2026

Purple Martin

14/14/2026

Cliff Swallow

34/14/2026

Eastern Bluebird

24/14/2026

House Finch

14/14/2026

Northern Cardinal

14/14/2026

Wild Turkey

14/14/2026

Mourning Dove

84/14/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/14/2026

Cooper's Hawk

24/14/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

14/14/2026

Tree Swallow

54/14/2026

Northern House Wren

44/14/2026

Chipping Sparrow

44/14/2026

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