Coastal birding habitat

Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 245 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and American Black Duck 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

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

7/20/2026The Johnson House1 observed

Acadian Flycatcher

Empidonax virescens

7/16/2026L. H. Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve1 observed

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

7/12/2026Cat Island Causeway (restricted access)1 observed

Dunlin

Calidris alpina

7/9/2026Ken Euers Nature Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

1007/12/2026

Mallard

57/12/2026

Wild Turkey

67/12/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/12/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/12/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/12/2026

Blue Jay

27/12/2026

American Crow

17/12/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/12/2026

American Robin

37/12/2026

House Sparrow

37/12/2026

American Goldfinch

27/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

307/12/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  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 Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary for birding?
The best months to visit Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary?
Notable species at Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary include Canada Goose, Mallard, American Black Duck, Mallard x American Black Duck (hybrid), Common Goldeneye. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary?
Birding at Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary?
Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.