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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/18/2026

Trumpeter Swan

4/18/2026

Greater Prairie-Chicken

214/18/2026

Marbled Godwit

54/18/2026

Northern Harrier

14/18/2026

Western Meadowlark

24/18/2026

Snow Goose

144/18/2026

Mallard

44/18/2026

Sandhill Crane

1004/18/2026

Wilson's Snipe

24/18/2026

Lapland Longspur

504/18/2026

Chipping Sparrow

14/18/2026

Wild Turkey

24/12/2026

Mourning Dove

14/12/2026

Killdeer

64/12/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

44/12/2026

Franklin's Gull

14/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/12/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/12/2026

Northern Flicker

64/12/2026

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.