Wetland birding habitat

George W. Mead State Wildlife Area

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

George W. Mead State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 250 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

7/20/2026Rangeline Flowage1 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

7/13/2026Rose Road Swedish to Hetze1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

37/20/2026

Ring-billed Gull

67/20/2026

Black Tern

177/20/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

87/20/2026

Great Egret

17/20/2026

Great Blue Heron

67/20/2026

American White Pelican

287/20/2026

Mallard

27/20/2026

Green Heron

17/20/2026

Canada Goose

87/19/2026

Wood Duck

67/19/2026

Wilson's Snipe

67/19/2026

Bald Eagle

17/19/2026

Hooded Merganser

17/18/2026

Ruffed Grouse

17/18/2026

Mourning Dove

17/18/2026

Barn Swallow

47/18/2026

Song Sparrow

17/18/2026

Swamp Sparrow

37/18/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

47/18/2026

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 George W. Mead State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit George W. Mead State Wildlife Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area?
Birding at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area?
George W. Mead State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.