Grassland birding habitat

Big Oak Tree State Park

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Big Oak Tree State Park is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 204 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland 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

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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

Least Bittern

Botaurus exilis

7/21/2026Reelfoot Lake SP--Kirby Pocket Day Use Area2 observed

Hooded Warbler

Setophaga citrina

7/14/2026Reelfoot-Indian Creek #5 Watershed Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

67/20/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/20/2026

Killdeer

17/20/2026

Great Egret

37/20/2026

Great Blue Heron

47/20/2026

Bald Eagle

17/20/2026

Indigo Bunting

37/20/2026

Dickcissel

27/20/2026

American Kestrel

17/18/2026

American Crow

17/18/2026

Mourning Dove

67/18/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

17/18/2026

Least Tern

17/18/2026

Little Blue Heron

67/18/2026

Green Heron

17/18/2026

American White Pelican

27/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/18/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/18/2026

Tree Swallow

27/18/2026

Barn Swallow

27/18/2026

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 Big Oak Tree State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Big Oak Tree State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Big Oak Tree State Park?
Notable species at Big Oak Tree State Park include Eastern Meadowlark, Dickcissel, Grasshopper Sparrow, Northern Harrier, Bobolink. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Oak Tree State Park?
Birding at Big Oak Tree State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Big Oak Tree State Park?
Big Oak Tree State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.