Coastal birding habitat

Point Beach State Forest

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
CoastalForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Point Beach State Forest is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 213 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and forest habitat attracts Great Horned Owl, Canada Goose, and Greater Scaup 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

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

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

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

4/16/2026Manitowoc Impoundment1 observed

Palm Warbler

Setophaga palmarum

4/16/2026Manitowoc Lakefront1 observed

Swainson's Thrush

Catharus ustulatus

4/16/20264023 Goodwin Rd, Manitowoc US-WI 44.13578, -87.700351 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

4/14/2026The Miller’s 44.15049, -87.574563 observed

Western Cattle-Egret

Ardea ibis

4/13/2026310 and 18th St1 observed

Northern House Wren

Troglodytes aedon

4/12/2026Woodland Dunes Nature Center--HQ & Cattail Trail1 observed

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

4/12/2026Manitowoc Lakefront2 observed

Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon)

Junco hyemalis

4/12/2026Manitowoc Yard1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

154/18/2026

Wood Duck

24/18/2026

Mallard

24/18/2026

Lesser Scaup

24/18/2026

Bufflehead

24/18/2026

Mourning Dove

24/18/2026

American Coot

14/18/2026

Sandhill Crane

84/18/2026

American Woodcock

14/18/2026

American Herring Gull

14/18/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/18/2026

Osprey

14/18/2026

Bald Eagle

14/18/2026

Downy Woodpecker

14/18/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

24/18/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

14/18/2026

Northern Flicker

14/18/2026

American Crow

54/18/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

54/18/2026

Tree Swallow

14/18/2026

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 Point Beach State Forest for birding?
The best months to visit Point Beach State Forest for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Point Beach State Forest?
Notable species at Point Beach State Forest include Great Horned Owl, Canada Goose, Greater Scaup, Long-tailed Duck, Common Goldeneye. The area supports coastal, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Point Beach State Forest?
Birding at Point Beach State Forest is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Point Beach State Forest?
Point Beach State Forest offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.