Grassland birding habitat

North Ottawa Impoundment

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

North Ottawa Impoundment is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 222 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Trumpeter Swan, Ring-necked Pheasant, 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

American Avocet

Recurvirostra americana

4/14/2026North Ottawa Impoundment5 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

64/17/2026

Canada Goose

454/17/2026

Trumpeter Swan

64/17/2026

Blue-winged Teal

1254/17/2026

Northern Shoveler

754/17/2026

Gadwall

504/17/2026

Mallard

304/17/2026

Northern Pintail

154/17/2026

Green-winged Teal

2504/17/2026

Redhead

44/17/2026

Ring-necked Duck

254/17/2026

Lesser Scaup

1004/17/2026

Bufflehead

404/17/2026

Mourning Dove

24/17/2026

American Coot

154/17/2026

Killdeer

54/17/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

104/17/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

44/17/2026

Baird's Sandpiper

34/17/2026

Pectoral Sandpiper

124/17/2026

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 North Ottawa Impoundment for birding?
The best months to visit North Ottawa Impoundment for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at North Ottawa Impoundment?
Notable species at North Ottawa Impoundment include Trumpeter Swan, Ring-necked Pheasant, Bald Eagle, Rough-legged Hawk. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at North Ottawa Impoundment?
Birding at North Ottawa Impoundment is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at North Ottawa Impoundment?
North Ottawa Impoundment offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.