Wetland birding habitat

Rothsay Wildlife Management Area

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rothsay Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 217 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Rough-legged Hawk 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

Western Tanager

Piranga ludoviciana

5/23/2026Blue Eagle Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

15/25/2026

Northern Shoveler

15/25/2026

Mallard

45/25/2026

Wild Turkey

15/25/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

25/25/2026

Mourning Dove

35/25/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

55/25/2026

Turkey Vulture

35/25/2026

Least Flycatcher

15/25/2026

Eastern Kingbird

45/25/2026

Common Raven

25/25/2026

Horned Lark

25/25/2026

Barn Swallow

115/25/2026

Northern House Wren

15/25/2026

Sedge Wren

65/25/2026

Marsh Wren

15/25/2026

American Goldfinch

25/25/2026

Grasshopper Sparrow

15/25/2026

Swamp Sparrow

15/25/2026

Bobolink

25/25/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Rothsay Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Rothsay Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rothsay Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Rothsay Wildlife Management Area include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Rough-legged Hawk, Wild Turkey, Ring-necked Pheasant. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rothsay Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Rothsay Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rothsay Wildlife Management Area?
Rothsay Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.