River/Riparian birding habitat

Willow Creek State Recreation Area

Nebraska · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Willow Creek State Recreation Area is a productive birding destination in Nebraska, with 247 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

5/25/2026Ta-ha-zouka Park1 observed

Lazuli Bunting

Passerina amoena

5/23/2026Oak Valley WMA2 observed

Canada Warbler

Cardellina canadensis

5/21/2026Ta-ha-zouka Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

105/23/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

25/23/2026

Mourning Dove

45/23/2026

Chimney Swift

25/23/2026

Killdeer

15/23/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/23/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

15/23/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/23/2026

Northern Flicker

25/23/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/23/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

35/23/2026

Barn Swallow

75/23/2026

Northern House Wren

15/23/2026

American Robin

125/23/2026

House Sparrow

45/23/2026

House Finch

15/23/2026

American Goldfinch

25/23/2026

Chipping Sparrow

75/23/2026

Song Sparrow

15/23/2026

Baltimore Oriole

15/23/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  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 Willow Creek State Recreation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Willow Creek State Recreation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Willow Creek State Recreation Area?
Notable species at Willow Creek State Recreation Area include Belted Kingfisher, Yellow Warbler, Song Sparrow, Great Blue Heron, Cedar Waxwing. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Willow Creek State Recreation Area?
Birding at Willow Creek State Recreation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Willow Creek State Recreation Area?
Willow Creek State Recreation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.