Coastal birding habitat

South Metro Pier (Oak Creek)

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
CoastalRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

South Metro Pier (Oak Creek) is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 220 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose, Redhead, and Common Goldeneye among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

7/11/2026Oak Creek Outlet to Lake Michigan1 observed

Kelp Gull

Larus dominicanus

7/11/2026stakeout Kelp Gull, Milwaukee (2024-2026)1 observed

Pine Siskin

Spinus pinus

7/11/20264 Mile Rd.-Private Residence1 observed

Broad-winged Hawk

Buteo platypterus

7/11/2026Wehr Nature Center1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

7/11/2026Cambridge Woods3 observed

Redhead

Aythya americana

7/11/2026Lakeshore SP/Harbor Island1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Bank Swallow

17/8/2026

Savannah Sparrow

17/8/2026

Song Sparrow

17/8/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

47/8/2026

Dickcissel

27/8/2026

Wild Turkey

36/29/2026

Mourning Dove

46/29/2026

Ring-billed Gull

306/29/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

26/29/2026

Blue Jay

26/29/2026

Tree Swallow

166/29/2026

Purple Martin

126/29/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

106/29/2026

European Starling

66/29/2026

Gray Catbird

26/29/2026

American Robin

26/29/2026

Cedar Waxwing

36/29/2026

House Sparrow

86/29/2026

House Finch

56/29/2026

American Goldfinch

46/29/2026

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 South Metro Pier (Oak Creek) for birding?
The best months to visit South Metro Pier (Oak Creek) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at South Metro Pier (Oak Creek)?
Notable species at South Metro Pier (Oak Creek) include Canada Goose, Redhead, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser. The area supports coastal, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at South Metro Pier (Oak Creek)?
Birding at South Metro Pier (Oak Creek) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at South Metro Pier (Oak Creek)?
South Metro Pier (Oak Creek) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.