Lake birding habitat

Smithville Lake

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Smithville Lake is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 291 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Mourning Dove, Ring-billed Gull, and Red-tailed Hawk 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

Cerulean Warbler

Setophaga cerulea

5/24/2026Weston Bend SP1 observed

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

Canada Goose

156/2/2026

Great Blue Heron

16/2/2026

Eastern Kingbird

26/2/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

26/2/2026

American Crow

26/2/2026

Tufted Titmouse

16/2/2026

Barn Swallow

86/2/2026

Cliff Swallow

206/2/2026

European Starling

36/2/2026

House Finch

46/2/2026

Common Grackle

146/2/2026

Indigo Bunting

26/2/2026

Turkey Vulture

46/2/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

16/2/2026

Downy Woodpecker

16/2/2026

Blue Jay

16/2/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

16/2/2026

Purple Martin

26/2/2026

Northern Mockingbird

36/2/2026

American Robin

66/2/2026

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 Smithville Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Smithville Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Smithville Lake?
Notable species at Smithville Lake include Mourning Dove, Ring-billed Gull, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Smithville Lake?
Birding at Smithville Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Smithville Lake?
Smithville Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.