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

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

7/16/2026Wildwood, Missouri, US (38.607, -90.729)1 observed

Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus

7/13/2026U.S. 50, Eureka, Missouri, US (38.504, -90.61)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Henslow's Sparrow

17/20/2026

Wood Duck

17/13/2026

Mourning Dove

17/13/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

17/13/2026

Chimney Swift

17/13/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/13/2026

Turkey Vulture

27/13/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

27/13/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/13/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

37/13/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

17/13/2026

American Kestrel

27/13/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/13/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

17/13/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/13/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/13/2026

Carolina Chickadee

27/13/2026

Purple Martin

27/13/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

87/13/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/13/2026

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.