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

Osprey

Pandion haliaetus

6/1/20261 1/2 Acre Ponds1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

5/29/2026Grand Pass CA1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

45/29/2026

Common Nighthawk

85/29/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

15/29/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/29/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/29/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

15/29/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

65/29/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

15/29/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

75/29/2026

Blue Jay

25/29/2026

Tufted Titmouse

25/29/2026

Tree Swallow

15/29/2026

Barn Swallow

35/29/2026

Carolina Wren

15/29/2026

Gray Catbird

25/29/2026

Brown Thrasher

15/29/2026

Wood Thrush

55/29/2026

American Robin

35/29/2026

American Goldfinch

35/29/2026

Yellow-breasted Chat

15/29/2026

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.