Lake birding habitat

Sham Lake

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Sham Lake is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

545/29/2026

Wood Duck

175/29/2026

Blue-winged Teal

145/29/2026

Northern Shoveler

75/29/2026

Gadwall

25/29/2026

Mallard

215/29/2026

Canvasback

15/29/2026

Redhead

265/29/2026

Lesser Scaup

15/29/2026

Hooded Merganser

135/29/2026

Ruddy Duck

35/29/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

45/29/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

25/29/2026

Mourning Dove

45/29/2026

Chimney Swift

55/29/2026

Sora

15/29/2026

American Coot

65/29/2026

Killdeer

25/29/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

45/29/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

35/29/2026

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