Forest birding habitat

Land Between the Lakes

Kentucky · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Land Between the Lakes is a productive birding destination in Kentucky, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

8/19/2026KY Dam1 observed

Black-bellied Plover

Pluvialis squatarola

8/17/2026Jonathan Creek Embayment--Mermie Road Viewing Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Killdeer

38/23/2026

Ring-billed Gull

38/23/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

8/23/2026

Great Blue Heron

38/23/2026

Osprey

38/23/2026

Bald Eagle

18/23/2026

Eastern Screech-Owl

8/23/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

8/23/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

88/23/2026

Eastern Kingbird

8/23/2026

American Crow

8/23/2026

Carolina Wren

8/23/2026

Chipping Sparrow

18/23/2026

Summer Tanager

8/23/2026

Mourning Dove

18/17/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

8/17/2026

Downy Woodpecker

18/17/2026

Carolina Chickadee

18/17/2026

Tufted Titmouse

18/17/2026

American Goldfinch

8/17/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Land Between the Lakes for birding?
The best months to visit Land Between the Lakes for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Land Between the Lakes?
Notable species at Land Between the Lakes include Red-eyed Vireo, Scarlet Tanager, Pileated Woodpecker, Wood Thrush, Ovenbird. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Land Between the Lakes?
Birding at Land Between the Lakes is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Land Between the Lakes?
Land Between the Lakes offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.