Barren River Lake SRP

Kentucky · Southeast

Habitat
LakeRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Barren River Lake SRP is a productive birding destination in Kentucky, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This lake and river/riparian habitat attracts Bonaparte's Gull, Ring-billed Gull, and Great Blue Heron among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

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

Purple Martin

Progne subis

3/3/2026The Birds Hideaway1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

2/26/20267803–7873 Old Glasgow Rd, Scottsville US-KY (36.8276,-86.1071)3 observed

Red-throated Loon

Gavia stellata

2/26/2026Barren River Lake--Bailey's Point1 observed

Neotropic Cormorant

Nannopterum brasilianum

2/24/2026Barren River Lake--Bailey's Point1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Bonaparte's Gull

123/3/2026

Ring-billed Gull

63/3/2026

Great Blue Heron

13/3/2026

Bald Eagle

13/3/2026

Blue Jay

13/3/2026

American Crow

23/3/2026

American Robin

13/3/2026

Sandhill Crane

353/3/2026

Wild Turkey

322/21/2026

Mourning Dove

12/21/2026

American Herring Gull

22/21/2026

Black Vulture

72/21/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

12/21/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

22/21/2026

American Kestrel

12/21/2026

Carolina Chickadee

12/21/2026

Tufted Titmouse

22/21/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

12/21/2026

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Barren River Lake SRP for birding?
The best months to visit Barren River Lake SRP for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Barren River Lake SRP?
Notable species at Barren River Lake SRP include Bonaparte's Gull, Ring-billed Gull, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Blue Jay. The area supports lake, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Barren River Lake SRP?
Birding at Barren River Lake SRP is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Barren River Lake SRP?
Barren River Lake SRP offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.