Canada Geese filling the sky over Horicon Marsh in fall

Horicon Marsh

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
WetlandMarsh
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Dawn to dusk daily

About This Location

Horicon Marsh is the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States, divided between a state wildlife area and a national wildlife refuge. In fall, it hosts spectacular gatherings of up to 200,000 Canada Geese, along with diverse breeding marsh birds in summer.

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

Common Nighthawk

Chordeiles minor

7/17/2026Horicon Marsh SWA--Education and Visitor Center1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wild Turkey

37/21/2026

Mourning Dove

37/21/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

27/21/2026

Belted Kingfisher

27/21/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/21/2026

Tree Swallow

2327/21/2026

Barn Swallow

247/21/2026

Northern House Wren

17/21/2026

Gray Catbird

27/21/2026

American Robin

37/21/2026

Song Sparrow

47/21/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

247/21/2026

Common Yellowthroat

37/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Visit in October for peak goose numbers

  2. 2

    The floating boardwalk trail is excellent for marsh species in summer

  3. 3

    Fall migration (September-October) brings waves of southbound warblers and raptors

  4. 4

    Arrive at dawn for peak bird activity, especially during migration seasons

  5. 5

    Bring waterproof boots and scan the marsh edges for rails, herons, and bitterns

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Horicon Marsh for birding?
The best months to visit Horicon Marsh for birding are September-October. The best seasons are Fall and Summer.
What birds can I see at Horicon Marsh?
Notable species at Horicon Marsh include Canada Goose, Sandhill Crane, American Bittern, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Forster's Tern, Ring-billed Gull, Red-bellied Woodpecker, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, European Starling. The area supports wetland, marsh habitats.
How difficult is birding at Horicon Marsh?
Birding at Horicon Marsh is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Horicon Marsh?
There is no entrance fee at Horicon Marsh. Hours: Dawn to dusk daily.
What amenities are available at Horicon Marsh?
Horicon Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Visitor Center, Auto Tour Route, Boardwalk.