Coastal birding habitat

Governor's Island

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Governor's Island is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Mourning Dove among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Prothonotary Warbler

Protonotaria citrea

6/1/2026UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve--Picnic Point1 observed

Yellow-throated Warbler

Setophaga dominica

6/1/2026UW - Observatory Hill1 observed

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

6/1/2026Indian Mound Conservation Park (Dane Co)1 observed

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

6/1/2026UW Madison Arboretum (general)1 observed

Black-throated Green Warbler

Setophaga virens

6/1/2026KP Yard1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

5/31/2026Solid #21 observed

Swainson's Thrush

Catharus ustulatus

5/31/2026Solid #21 observed

Greater Yellowlegs

Tringa melanoleuca

5/31/2026Sub-Zero Pkwy ponds1 observed

Acadian Flycatcher

Empidonax virescens

5/31/2026Gibraltar Rock SNA1 observed

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

5/31/2026Black Earth Creek Natural Resource Area (Black Earth Creek Headwaters)1 observed

Summer Tanager

Piranga rubra

5/30/2026Fish Camp1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/30/2026

Mallard

65/30/2026

Mourning Dove

35/30/2026

Black-billed Cuckoo

15/30/2026

Chimney Swift

25/30/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/30/2026

Ring-billed Gull

25/30/2026

Green Heron

15/30/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/30/2026

Belted Kingfisher

25/30/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

25/30/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Northern Flicker

25/30/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/30/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

35/30/2026

Eastern Kingbird

25/30/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

25/30/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/30/2026

Blue Jay

35/30/2026

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 Governor's Island for birding?
The best months to visit Governor's Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Governor's Island?
Notable species at Governor's Island include Canada Goose, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Governor's Island?
Birding at Governor's Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Governor's Island?
Governor's Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.