River/Riparian birding habitat

Purgatory Creek Wetlands

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Purgatory Creek Wetlands is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 236 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian 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

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

7/18/2026Theodore Wirth Park--Golf Course/Chalet1 observed

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

7/13/2026Galaxie Ave between 140th and 150th1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

57/19/2026

Wood Duck

87/19/2026

Mallard

167/19/2026

Killdeer

27/19/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

87/19/2026

Green Heron

17/19/2026

Great Egret

427/19/2026

Great Blue Heron

187/19/2026

Bald Eagle

17/19/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

47/19/2026

Barn Swallow

27/19/2026

American Robin

37/19/2026

American Goldfinch

47/19/2026

Song Sparrow

47/19/2026

Common Yellowthroat

37/19/2026

Mourning Dove

27/18/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

17/18/2026

Ring-billed Gull

27/18/2026

Osprey

17/18/2026

Belted Kingfisher

27/18/2026

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 Purgatory Creek Wetlands for birding?
The best months to visit Purgatory Creek Wetlands for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Purgatory Creek Wetlands?
Notable species at Purgatory Creek Wetlands include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Mallard, Hooded Merganser, Common Merganser. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Purgatory Creek Wetlands?
Birding at Purgatory Creek Wetlands is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Purgatory Creek Wetlands?
Purgatory Creek Wetlands offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.