Lake birding habitat

Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area

Nebraska · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area is a productive birding destination in Nebraska, with 248 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Mallard, American Coot, and Ring-billed Gull 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-chinned Hummingbird

Archilochus alexandri

5/27/2026stakeout Couch's Kingbird--North Platte (2024-25)1 observed

Summer Tanager

Piranga rubra

5/26/2026West North River Road1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

5/20/2026301 E State Farm Rd, North Platte US-NE 41.09062, -100.760763 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

35/30/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

55/30/2026

American White Pelican

35/30/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/30/2026

Northern Flicker

15/30/2026

European Starling

15/30/2026

Western Meadowlark

15/30/2026

Common Grackle

35/30/2026

Willet

15/30/2026

Baltimore Oriole

25/30/2026

American Robin

25/30/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

35/30/2026

Dickcissel

15/30/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/30/2026

Belted Kingfisher

25/30/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Brown Thrasher

15/30/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

25/28/2026

Great Egret

35/28/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/28/2026

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 Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area?
Notable species at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area include Mallard, American Coot, Ring-billed Gull, Bald Eagle, Downy Woodpecker. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area?
Birding at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area?
Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.