Lake birding habitat

Pelican Lake

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Pelican Lake is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 231 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Rock Pigeon 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

Northern Saw-whet Owl

Aegolius acadicus

6/3/2026Sherburne NWR--Wildlife Drive5 observed

Common Gallinule

Gallinula galeata

6/1/2026Sherburne NWR--Wildlife Drive1 observed

Northern Saw-whet Owl (acadicus)

Aegolius acadicus

5/31/2026Sherburne NWR--Wildlife Drive3 observed

Common Gallinule (American)

Gallinula galeata

5/31/2026Sherburne NWR--Wildlife Drive1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

86/2/2026

Trumpeter Swan

26/2/2026

Wood Duck

126/2/2026

Blue-winged Teal

36/2/2026

Mallard

86/2/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

16/2/2026

Virginia Rail

26/2/2026

Sora

36/2/2026

Sandhill Crane

26/2/2026

Killdeer

36/2/2026

Ring-billed Gull

206/2/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

26/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

2506/2/2026

Green Heron

16/2/2026

Great Egret

26/2/2026

Great Blue Heron

26/2/2026

American White Pelican

2506/2/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

16/2/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

36/2/2026

Willow Flycatcher

26/2/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Pelican Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Pelican Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Pelican Lake?
Notable species at Pelican Lake include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Rock Pigeon, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Mourning Dove. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pelican Lake?
Birding at Pelican Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Pelican Lake?
Pelican Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.