Grassland birding habitat

Gooseberry Falls State Park

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Gooseberry Falls State Park is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Downy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, and Red-breasted Nuthatch 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-throated Loon

Gavia stellata

7/4/2026Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Two Harbors US-MN 47.20682, -91.359821 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Solitary Sandpiper

17/17/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/17/2026

Common Raven

17/17/2026

Veery

17/17/2026

American Robin

17/17/2026

Cedar Waxwing

37/17/2026

Purple Finch

17/17/2026

Chipping Sparrow

17/17/2026

Ovenbird

47/17/2026

Golden-winged Warbler

17/17/2026

Black-and-white Warbler

17/17/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/17/2026

American Redstart

47/17/2026

Chestnut-sided Warbler

17/17/2026

Black-throated Green Warbler

17/17/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

27/15/2026

Song Sparrow

17/15/2026

Canada Warbler

17/15/2026

Ruffed Grouse

17/12/2026

Blue Jay

27/12/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Gooseberry Falls State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Gooseberry Falls State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Gooseberry Falls State Park?
Notable species at Gooseberry Falls State Park include Downy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, Red-breasted Nuthatch, American Crow, Common Raven. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Gooseberry Falls State Park?
Birding at Gooseberry Falls State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Gooseberry Falls State Park?
Gooseberry Falls State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.