Grassland birding habitat

Ridges Sanctuary

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Ridges Sanctuary is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Great Horned Owl, and Northern Saw-whet Owl 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

Great Black-backed Gull

Larus marinus

7/11/2026Sven's Bluff Lookout1 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

7/1/2026Newport SP100 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Flicker

17/13/2026

American Robin

27/13/2026

American Goldfinch

17/13/2026

Common Yellowthroat

27/13/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

17/13/2026

Canada Goose

47/13/2026

American White Pelican

237/13/2026

Turkey Vulture

27/13/2026

Merlin

17/13/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

27/13/2026

Blue Jay

47/13/2026

American Crow

27/13/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

77/13/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

27/13/2026

Red-breasted Nuthatch

47/13/2026

Winter Wren

17/13/2026

Cedar Waxwing

127/13/2026

Song Sparrow

37/13/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

17/13/2026

Black-and-white Warbler

17/13/2026

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ridges Sanctuary for birding?
The best months to visit Ridges Sanctuary for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ridges Sanctuary?
Notable species at Ridges Sanctuary include Canada Goose, Great Horned Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Black-capped Chickadee, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ridges Sanctuary?
Birding at Ridges Sanctuary is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ridges Sanctuary?
Ridges Sanctuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.