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Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 267 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Bufflehead 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

Carolina Wren

Thryothorus ludovicianus

7/21/2026Sheffield site1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

7/20/2026Christ Presbyterian Church2 observed

Little Blue Heron

Egretta caerulea

7/18/2026US-14 W, Fitchburg US-WI (42.9836,-89.3857)1 observed

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

7/17/2026Lake Farm County Park1 observed

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

7/16/2026Military Ridge State Trail west of Town Hall Rd2 observed

American Avocet

Recurvirostra americana

7/15/2026Sub-Zero Pkwy ponds1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

17/21/2026

Sandhill Crane

27/21/2026

Osprey

17/21/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/21/2026

American Crow

37/21/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

27/21/2026

Purple Martin

57/21/2026

Barn Swallow

127/21/2026

Marsh Wren

17/21/2026

European Starling

37/21/2026

American Goldfinch

37/21/2026

Song Sparrow

47/21/2026

Swamp Sparrow

27/21/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

37/21/2026

Common Yellowthroat

37/21/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

27/21/2026

Northern Cardinal

27/21/2026

Canada Goose

707/12/2026

Wood Duck

17/12/2026

Blue-winged Teal

87/12/2026

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 Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) for birding?
The best months to visit Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)?
Notable species at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) include Canada Goose, Mallard, Bufflehead, Sandhill Crane, Cackling Goose, Great Horned Owl, Eastern Screech-Owl, American Robin, House Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Northern Cardinal. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)?
Birding at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)?
There is no entrance fee at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area). Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)?
Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.