A flock of swans are swimming in the water

Manitowoc Lakefront

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily

About This Location

Manitowoc Lakefront is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 298 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and American Black Duck 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

Hudsonian Godwit

Limosa haemastica

4/18/2026Rangeline Rd.--Hwy MM Intersection (Sheboygan Co.)3 observed

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

4/17/20264023 Goodwin Rd, Manitowoc US-WI 44.13578, -87.700351 observed

Palm Warbler

Setophaga palmarum

4/17/2026Collins Marsh1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

4/16/2026Manitowoc Impoundment1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

484/18/2026

Wood Duck

34/18/2026

Blue-winged Teal

124/18/2026

Mallard

94/18/2026

Green-winged Teal

34/18/2026

Canvasback

24/18/2026

Redhead

854/18/2026

Ring-necked Duck

184/18/2026

Greater Scaup

304/18/2026

Lesser Scaup

604/18/2026

Bufflehead

284/18/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

214/18/2026

Ruddy Duck

384/18/2026

Rock Pigeon

24/18/2026

Mourning Dove

54/18/2026

American Coot

164/18/2026

Sandhill Crane

74/18/2026

Ring-billed Gull

44/18/2026

American Herring Gull

404/18/2026

Caspian Tern

14/18/2026

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.

  4. 4

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

  5. 5

    Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Manitowoc Lakefront for birding?
The best months to visit Manitowoc Lakefront for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Manitowoc Lakefront?
Notable species at Manitowoc Lakefront include Canada Goose, Mallard, American Black Duck, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Mourning Dove, American Herring Gull, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, House Sparrow. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Manitowoc Lakefront?
Birding at Manitowoc Lakefront is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Manitowoc Lakefront?
There is no entrance fee at Manitowoc Lakefront. Hours: Open daily.
What amenities are available at Manitowoc Lakefront?
Manitowoc Lakefront offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.