River/Riparian birding habitat

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2 is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 214 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Common Merganser, Rock Pigeon, and Bald Eagle 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

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

7/21/2026140th St. Marsh1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

7/21/2026Kinnickinnic SP1 observed

Carolina Wren

Thryothorus ludovicianus

7/20/2026Crosby Park Shelter, 2400 Crosby Farm Trail1 observed

Rough-legged Hawk

Buteo lagopus

7/20/2026Linwood Park1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

7/20/2026home1 observed

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

7/19/2026205th St.7 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (Krider's)

Buteo jamaicensis

7/18/2026Emery Ave/160th1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

1007/15/2026

Mourning Dove

27/15/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

47/15/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/15/2026

American White Pelican

157/15/2026

Peregrine Falcon

27/15/2026

American Robin

27/15/2026

American Goldfinch

17/15/2026

Song Sparrow

17/15/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  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 Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2 for birding?
The best months to visit Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2 for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2?
Notable species at Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2 include Common Merganser, Rock Pigeon, Bald Eagle, Northern Shrike, American Crow. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2?
Birding at Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2 is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2?
Mississippi River Lock and Dam 2 offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.