Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
ForestLake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This forest and lake habitat attracts Red-breasted Nuthatch, 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

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

3/3/2026Home1 observed

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

3/3/2026Horicon Marsh SWA--Education and Visitor Center1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

3/2/202610532 Cedar Creek Rd, Cedarburg US-WI 43.33689, -88.044052 observed

Glaucous Gull

Larus hyperboreus

2/24/2026Horicon Marsh SWA--Education and Visitor Center1 observed

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

2/23/2026My yard1 observed

Purple Finch

Haemorhous purpureus

2/21/2026Home3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-breasted Nuthatch

12/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  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 Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit for birding?
The best months to visit Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit?
Notable species at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit include Red-breasted Nuthatch, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch. The area supports forest, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit?
Birding at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit?
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.