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

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta canadensis

7/18/2026Indian Hills Subdivision, North Platte, Nebraska, US (41.081, -100.784)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

77/15/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/15/2026

Northern Flicker

17/15/2026

Northern House Wren

17/15/2026

American Robin

77/15/2026

House Finch

37/15/2026

American Goldfinch

47/15/2026

Baltimore Oriole

17/15/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

37/15/2026

Common Grackle

47/15/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

57/15/2026

Blue Grosbeak

17/15/2026

Dickcissel

27/15/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/15/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

17/15/2026

Western Kingbird

27/15/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/15/2026

American Crow

17/15/2026

Barn Swallow

37/15/2026

European Starling

307/15/2026

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.