Lake birding habitat

Salt Lake

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Salt Lake is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 217 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Horned Lark and American Tree Sparrow 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

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

4/15/2026Joe Spors Slough5 observed

Dunlin

Calidris alpina

4/14/2026Co Rd 73 observed

Garganey

Spatula querquedula

4/14/2026Joe Spors Slough1 observed

Sora

Porzana carolina

4/13/2026Joe Spors Slough1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

104/16/2026

Ross's Goose

14/16/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

54/16/2026

Canada Goose

44/16/2026

Wood Duck

64/16/2026

Blue-winged Teal

1254/16/2026

Northern Shoveler

1004/16/2026

Gadwall

354/16/2026

Mallard

54/16/2026

Green-winged Teal

124/16/2026

Canvasback

104/16/2026

Redhead

44/16/2026

Ring-necked Duck

604/16/2026

Lesser Scaup

1254/16/2026

Bufflehead

254/16/2026

Hooded Merganser

44/16/2026

Ruddy Duck

754/16/2026

Mourning Dove

44/16/2026

American Coot

3504/16/2026

Killdeer

44/16/2026

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 Salt Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Salt Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Salt Lake?
Notable species at Salt Lake include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Salt Lake?
Birding at Salt Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Salt Lake?
Salt Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.