Lake birding habitat

Cooley Lake CA

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cooley Lake CA is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 257 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Turkey Vulture, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Horned Lark 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

Blue-winged Warbler

Vermivora cyanoptera

5/22/2026Watkins Mill SP1 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

5/22/2026Anita B Gorman Trailhead- Collins Road2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

25/25/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/25/2026

Killdeer

25/25/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

15/25/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

25/25/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/25/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/25/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/25/2026

Eastern Phoebe

15/25/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

25/25/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/25/2026

Bell's Vireo

15/25/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/25/2026

Blue Jay

35/25/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

15/25/2026

Barn Swallow

15/25/2026

Northern House Wren

25/25/2026

Gray Catbird

15/25/2026

Brown Thrasher

15/25/2026

Eastern Bluebird

25/25/2026

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 Cooley Lake CA for birding?
The best months to visit Cooley Lake CA for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cooley Lake CA?
Notable species at Cooley Lake CA include Turkey Vulture, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Horned Lark, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cooley Lake CA?
Birding at Cooley Lake CA is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cooley Lake CA?
Cooley Lake CA offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.