Lake birding habitat

Rice Lake State Park

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rice Lake State Park is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Downy Woodpecker 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-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

6/2/2026Prairie Rose WMA1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

6/1/2026Saco Farm Woods & Fields1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

5/31/2026

Wild Turkey

15/31/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/31/2026

Sandhill Crane

25/31/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

125/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

25/31/2026

American White Pelican

375/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

35/31/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/31/2026

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

5/31/2026

American Crow

35/31/2026

Gray Catbird

25/31/2026

American Robin

75/31/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

5/31/2026

Common Yellowthroat

15/31/2026

American Redstart

15/31/2026

Indigo Bunting

15/31/2026

Bald Eagle

15/31/2026

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 Rice Lake State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Rice Lake State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rice Lake State Park?
Notable species at Rice Lake State Park include Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rice Lake State Park?
Birding at Rice Lake State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Rice Lake State Park?
Rice Lake State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.