Coastal birding habitat

Milwaukee Harbor

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Milwaukee Harbor is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 202 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Lesser Scaup, and Common Goldeneye 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

Merlin

Falco columbarius

7/21/2026Milwaukee River Greenway--North Ave. to Locust St.1 observed

Kelp Gull

Larus dominicanus

7/21/2026stakeout Kelp Gull, Milwaukee (2024-2026)1 observed

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

7/21/2026Freistadt1 observed

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

7/20/2026Lakeshore SP/Harbor Island1 observed

Pine Siskin

Spinus pinus

7/20/2026Home 9277 N Lake Dr, Bayside3 observed

Great Black-backed Gull

Larus marinus

7/20/2026McKinley Beach1 observed

Broad-winged Hawk

Buteo platypterus

7/19/2026Wehr Nature Center1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

167/21/2026

Mallard

127/21/2026

Mourning Dove

17/21/2026

Ring-billed Gull

807/21/2026

American Herring Gull

157/21/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

47/21/2026

Tree Swallow

67/21/2026

European Starling

47/21/2026

House Sparrow

77/21/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

57/21/2026

Common Grackle

27/21/2026

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 Milwaukee Harbor for birding?
The best months to visit Milwaukee Harbor for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Milwaukee Harbor?
Notable species at Milwaukee Harbor include Canada Goose, Lesser Scaup, Common Goldeneye, Red-breasted Merganser, American Herring Gull. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Milwaukee Harbor?
Birding at Milwaukee Harbor is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Milwaukee Harbor?
Milwaukee Harbor offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.