Grassland birding habitat

Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, and Greater White-fronted Goose 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

Yellow-headed Blackbird

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

7/20/2026N. of Marshall on 411 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

47/15/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

27/15/2026

Killdeer

17/15/2026

Broad-winged Hawk

17/15/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/15/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

37/15/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

37/15/2026

Downy Woodpecker

37/15/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

17/15/2026

Northern Flicker

17/15/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

87/15/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

57/15/2026

Eastern Phoebe

17/15/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

27/15/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/15/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

27/15/2026

Blue Jay

47/15/2026

Tufted Titmouse

77/15/2026

Tree Swallow

37/15/2026

Barn Swallow

437/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park?
Notable species at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park include Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Red-shouldered Hawk, Barred Owl. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park?
Birding at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park?
Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.