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

Great Tit

Parus major

7/19/2026Henry Mueller Family Conservancy1 observed

Brown Creeper

Certhia americana

7/19/2026Cedarburg Bog SNA--Watts Lake1 observed

Acadian Flycatcher

Empidonax virescens

7/19/2026Cedarburg Bog SNA--Watts Lake1 observed

Black-throated Green Warbler

Setophaga virens

7/19/2026Henry Mueller Family Conservancy1 observed

Red Crossbill (Ponderosa Pine or type 2)

Loxia curvirostra

7/19/2026Cedarburg Bog SNA--Horn Lake1 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

7/18/2026Covered Bridge Park1 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

7/14/2026Kohler-Andrae SP--Old Park Rd /Ancient Shores Trail1 observed

Alder Flycatcher

Empidonax alnorum

7/14/2026Forest Beach Migratory Preserve--northeast (Restoring Lands)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Flicker

17/15/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/15/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/15/2026

American Crow

17/15/2026

Gray Catbird

27/15/2026

American Robin

37/15/2026

Cedar Waxwing

27/15/2026

American Goldfinch

87/15/2026

Clay-colored Sparrow

17/15/2026

Song Sparrow

17/15/2026

Eastern Towhee

17/15/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

17/15/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/15/2026

Northern Cardinal

27/15/2026

Mourning Dove

17/14/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/14/2026

Alder Flycatcher

17/14/2026

Blue Jay

17/14/2026

Tree Swallow

17/14/2026

European Starling

307/14/2026

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.