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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

124/11/2026

Trumpeter Swan

14/11/2026

Canvasback

14/11/2026

Common Merganser

24/11/2026

American Coot

1004/11/2026

Sandhill Crane

64/11/2026

Bonaparte's Gull

24/11/2026

Horned Grebe

14/11/2026

Common Loon

14/11/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

34/11/2026

American White Pelican

24/11/2026

Bald Eagle

14/11/2026

Barred Owl

14/11/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

14/11/2026

Northern Flicker

54/11/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

44/11/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

14/11/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

14/11/2026

American Robin

14/11/2026

Fox Sparrow

34/11/2026

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.