Grassland birding habitat

Shaw Nature Reserve

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Shaw Nature Reserve is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Killdeer, and Turkey Vulture 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

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

Dendrocygna autumnalis

5/31/2026Pattington Ln.5 observed

Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus

5/30/2026Route 66 SP2 observed

Pine Siskin

Spinus pinus

5/22/2026Busch CA1 observed

Purple Finch

Haemorhous purpureus

5/21/20267140 Schifon Dr, Cedar Hill US-MO 38.34062, -90.66156

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

5/19/2026Washington Rotary Riverfront Trail and Access1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

55/31/2026

Northern Bobwhite

25/31/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

45/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/31/2026

Turkey Vulture

85/31/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

25/31/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

15/31/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

55/31/2026

Willow Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/31/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

25/31/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

25/31/2026

Blue Jay

15/31/2026

Tufted Titmouse

15/31/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

25/31/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

35/31/2026

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 Shaw Nature Reserve for birding?
The best months to visit Shaw Nature Reserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Shaw Nature Reserve?
Notable species at Shaw Nature Reserve include Canada Goose, Killdeer, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Red-headed Woodpecker. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Shaw Nature Reserve?
Birding at Shaw Nature Reserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Shaw Nature Reserve?
Shaw Nature Reserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.