Wetland birding habitat

Orwell Wildlife Management Area

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Orwell Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Mallard 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

Wood Duck

24/15/2026

Mallard

24/15/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

34/15/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

14/15/2026

Northern Flicker

14/15/2026

American Robin

54/15/2026

American Goldfinch

24/15/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

24/15/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

14/15/2026

Canada Goose

24/14/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

34/14/2026

Mourning Dove

14/14/2026

Horned Lark

24/14/2026

Vesper Sparrow

14/14/2026

Song Sparrow

14/14/2026

Western Meadowlark

14/14/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

304/14/2026

Canvasback

4/10/2026

Redhead

4/10/2026

Ring-necked Duck

4/10/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Orwell Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Orwell Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Orwell Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Orwell Wildlife Management Area include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Mallard, Bald Eagle, Hairy Woodpecker. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Orwell Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Orwell Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Orwell Wildlife Management Area?
Orwell Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.