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

Long-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus scolopaceus

7/16/2026552 Southeast 108th Street, Owatonna, Minnesota, US (43.935, -93.223)1 observed

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

7/10/2026Saco Farm Yard1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

17/6/2026

Mallard

67/6/2026

Mourning Dove

27/6/2026

Killdeer

17/6/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

37/6/2026

Great Egret

17/6/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/6/2026

American Crow

27/6/2026

Tree Swallow

207/6/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

27/6/2026

Cliff Swallow

67/6/2026

Sedge Wren

47/6/2026

Marsh Wren

37/6/2026

House Sparrow

17/6/2026

Clay-colored Sparrow

17/6/2026

Field Sparrow

17/6/2026

Song Sparrow

57/6/2026

Swamp Sparrow

27/6/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

127/6/2026

Common Yellowthroat

87/6/2026

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.