Governor Nelson State Park

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Governor Nelson State Park is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 236 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Hairy Woodpecker 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

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

3/6/2026Sub-Zero Pkwy ponds2 observed

Barrow's Goldeneye

Bucephala islandica

3/6/2026Tenney Park1 observed

Iceland Gull (Thayer's)

Larus glaucoides

3/5/2026McDaniel Park1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

3/5/2026Yahara Heights County Park/Cherokee Marsh Natural Resource Area—West Trailhead1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

12/27/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

22/27/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

12/27/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

22/27/2026

American Tree Sparrow

182/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Governor Nelson State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Governor Nelson State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Governor Nelson State Park?
Notable species at Governor Nelson State Park include Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, American Tree Sparrow. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Governor Nelson State Park?
Birding at Governor Nelson State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Governor Nelson State Park?
Governor Nelson State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.