Lake Contrary

Missouri · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Lake Contrary is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 258 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Gadwall, 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

Canada Goose Gadwall Mallard Northern Pintail Green-winged Teal

Live Bird Data

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

27/14/2026

Killdeer

17/14/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

17/14/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/14/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/14/2026

Barn Swallow

47/14/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

27/14/2026

Carolina Wren

17/14/2026

European Starling

47/14/2026

American Robin

107/14/2026

House Sparrow

67/14/2026

American Goldfinch

27/14/2026

Orchard Oriole

47/14/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

407/14/2026

Common Yellowthroat

37/14/2026

Northern Cardinal

27/14/2026

Indigo Bunting

47/14/2026

Dickcissel

27/14/2026

Birding Tips

1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Missouri

Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge

Missouri River refuge with epic Snow Goose migrations and diverse wetland birds.

Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park

Grassland birding hotspot in Missouri with 209 recorded species.

Bean Lake

Lake birding hotspot in Missouri with 219 recorded species.

Missouri Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Missouri →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Lake Contrary for birding?▼

The best months to visit Lake Contrary for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.

What birds can I see at Lake Contrary?▼

Notable species at Lake Contrary include Canada Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at Lake Contrary?▼

Birding at Lake Contrary is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Lake Contrary?▼

Lake Contrary offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.