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

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

6/3/202656274, Norcross US-MN (45.9648,-96.2442)2 observed

American Black Duck

Anas rubripes

6/1/2026North Ottawa Impoundment1 observed

Cinnamon Teal

Spatula cyanoptera

6/1/2026North Ottawa Impoundment1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

5/23/2026North Ottawa Impoundment2 observed

Piping Plover

Charadrius melodus

5/20/2026North Ottawa Impoundment1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

16/1/2026

Killdeer

16/1/2026

Alder Flycatcher

16/1/2026

Least Flycatcher

16/1/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

16/1/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

16/1/2026

Blue Jay

26/1/2026

Cliff Swallow

66/1/2026

Northern House Wren

16/1/2026

American Robin

26/1/2026

House Sparrow

26/1/2026

American Goldfinch

46/1/2026

Clay-colored Sparrow

16/1/2026

Song Sparrow

26/1/2026

Swamp Sparrow

16/1/2026

Baltimore Oriole

16/1/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

66/1/2026

Common Grackle

56/1/2026

Common Yellowthroat

26/1/2026

American Redstart

16/1/2026

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.