Wetland birding habitat

Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 275 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Trumpeter Swan, Ring-necked Pheasant, and Bald Eagle 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

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

7/14/2026Crex Reed Lake Shortgrass Prairie Sands3 observed

Orchard Oriole

Icterus spurius

7/14/2026South Phantom Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-eyed Vireo

17/18/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

17/18/2026

Chipping Sparrow

17/18/2026

Trumpeter Swan

27/18/2026

Blue-winged Teal

17/18/2026

Mallard

17/18/2026

Mourning Dove

17/18/2026

Sandhill Crane

17/18/2026

Black Tern

67/18/2026

Common Loon

37/18/2026

Green Heron

17/18/2026

Bald Eagle

17/18/2026

Eastern Kingbird

47/18/2026

Sedge Wren

17/18/2026

Marsh Wren

17/18/2026

Swamp Sparrow

27/18/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

127/18/2026

Common Yellowthroat

37/18/2026

Indigo Bunting

17/18/2026

Grasshopper Sparrow

27/17/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area include Trumpeter Swan, Ring-necked Pheasant, Bald Eagle, Great Horned Owl, American Crow. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area?
Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.