Forest birding habitat

Penn Forest Reservoir

Pennsylvania · Northeast

Habitat
ForestLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Penn Forest Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Pennsylvania, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This forest and lake habitat attracts Wild Turkey, Bald Eagle, and American Crow among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

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

Gray-cheeked Thrush

Catharus minimus

5/31/2026Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

5/31/202667A64_21 observed

Stilt Sandpiper

Calidris himantopus

5/25/2026Phiefer’s Ice Dam Park1 observed

Brant

Branta bernicla

5/25/2026Beltzville SP--Day Use Area1 observed

Common Tern

Sterna hirundo

5/25/2026Beltzville SP1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

5/25/2026Old Carriage Road, Bath, Pennsylvania, US (40.728, -75.433)1 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

5/24/2026Zmoda's yard1 observed

Pectoral Sandpiper

Calidris melanotos

5/23/2026Mount Pocono Airport/Lynchwood Lake (restricted access)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

American Black Duck

25/30/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/30/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/30/2026

American Robin

35/30/2026

Chipping Sparrow

15/30/2026

Ovenbird

25/30/2026

Black-and-white Warbler

15/30/2026

American Redstart

15/30/2026

Northern Parula

15/30/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/30/2026

Canada Goose

35/25/2026

Common Loon

15/25/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/25/2026

Eastern Phoebe

15/25/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/25/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

15/25/2026

Tufted Titmouse

15/25/2026

Tree Swallow

25/25/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

25/25/2026

Barn Swallow

25/25/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Penn Forest Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Penn Forest Reservoir for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Penn Forest Reservoir?
Notable species at Penn Forest Reservoir include Wild Turkey, Bald Eagle, American Crow, Common Raven, Pileated Woodpecker. The area supports forest, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Penn Forest Reservoir?
Birding at Penn Forest Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Penn Forest Reservoir?
Penn Forest Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.