Lake birding habitat

Lake Contrary

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
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

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

4/14/2026KS: Doniphan Co.1 observed

Pine Warbler

Setophaga pinus

4/14/2026Warnock Lake1 observed

Ruddy Turnstone

Arenaria interpres

4/11/2026Lake Contrary1 observed

Yellow-headed Blackbird

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

4/4/20261067–1087 Vernon Rd, Wathena US-KS 39.75845, -94.926771 observed

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

4/3/2026SW Mud Lake Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

54/16/2026

Blue-winged Teal

2504/16/2026

Wild Turkey

14/16/2026

Mourning Dove

14/16/2026

Sora

14/16/2026

American Coot

24/16/2026

Killdeer

24/16/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

14/16/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

14/16/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

14/16/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

1154/16/2026

Great Blue Heron

24/16/2026

Belted Kingfisher

14/16/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

14/16/2026

Downy Woodpecker

14/16/2026

Northern Flicker

14/16/2026

Blue Jay

24/16/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

14/16/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

14/16/2026

Carolina Wren

14/16/2026

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 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.