Lake birding habitat

Willow Creek Reservoir

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
LakeRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Willow Creek Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This lake and river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose, American Wigeon, and Mallard 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

Summer Tanager

Piranga rubra

7/17/2026Chester Woods1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

7/17/2026My yard1 observed

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

7/15/2026East Landfill Kalmar Reservoir1 observed

Gadwall

Mareca strepera

7/12/2026East Landfill Kalmar Reservoir1 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

7/10/2026Chester Woods1 observed

Green-winged Teal

Anas crecca

7/10/2026East Landfill Kalmar Reservoir1 observed

Ruddy Duck

Oxyura jamaicensis

7/10/2026Silver Creek Reservoir2 observed

Semipalmated Plover

Charadrius semipalmatus

7/8/2026South Landfill Reservoir2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eastern Kingbird

17/14/2026

Barn Swallow

57/14/2026

House Sparrow

37/14/2026

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 Willow Creek Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Willow Creek Reservoir for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Willow Creek Reservoir?
Notable species at Willow Creek Reservoir include Canada Goose, American Wigeon, Mallard, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker. The area supports lake, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Willow Creek Reservoir?
Birding at Willow Creek Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Willow Creek Reservoir?
Willow Creek Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.