Coastal birding habitat

Forest Beach Migratory Preserve

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
CoastalForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Forest Beach Migratory Preserve is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 267 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and forest habitat attracts Sandhill Crane, American Crow, and Black-capped Chickadee 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

Upland Sandpiper

Bartramia longicauda

5/31/2026South Taylor Drive, Sheboygan, Wisconsin, US (43.686, -87.756)1 observed

White-eyed Vireo

Vireo griseus

5/30/2026Kohler-Andrae SP--Black River Trails1 observed

Carolina Wren

Thryothorus ludovicianus

5/30/2026Henry Mueller Family Conservancy1 observed

Great Tit

Parus major

5/30/2026Henry Mueller Family Conservancy1 observed

Louisiana Waterthrush

Parkesia motacilla

5/30/2026Riveredge Nature Center - West1 observed

Franklin's Gull

Leucophaeus pipixcan

5/30/2026Kohler-Andrae SP1 observed

Prairie Warbler

Setophaga discolor

5/29/2026Kohler-Andrae SP--Dunes Cordwalk1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

5/29/2026UW-Milwaukee Field Station--Upland Woods Area (restricted access)1 observed

Eurasian Collared-Dove

Streptopelia decaocto

5/28/2026Hwy B-south of Hwy K / north of Jay Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

55/31/2026

Mallard

25/31/2026

Mourning Dove

15/31/2026

Sandhill Crane

25/31/2026

Killdeer

15/31/2026

Ring-billed Gull

15/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

35/31/2026

Great Horned Owl

15/31/2026

Alder Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Willow Flycatcher

25/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/31/2026

Blue Jay

15/31/2026

American Crow

45/31/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

25/31/2026

Tree Swallow

25/31/2026

Purple Martin

15/31/2026

Northern House Wren

25/31/2026

Gray Catbird

15/31/2026

Brown Thrasher

15/31/2026

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 Forest Beach Migratory Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Forest Beach Migratory Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve?
Notable species at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve include Sandhill Crane, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Canada Goose, Mourning Dove. The area supports coastal, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve?
Birding at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve?
Forest Beach Migratory Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.