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

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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

Kelp Gull

Larus dominicanus

5/31/2026stakeout Kelp Gull, Milwaukee (2025)1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

5/31/2026Menomonee River PKWY #81 observed

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher

Empidonax flaviventris

5/31/202616290 W Crescent Dr, New Berlin US-WI 42.96841, -88.117321 observed

Franklin's Gull

Leucophaeus pipixcan

5/30/2026Oak Creek Outlet to Lake Michigan1 observed

Dark-eyed Junco

Junco hyemalis

5/30/2026Lake Park (general)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

175/26/2026

Mallard

35/26/2026

Mourning Dove

125/26/2026

Killdeer

25/26/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

25/26/2026

Bonaparte's Gull

55/26/2026

Ring-billed Gull

255/26/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/26/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/26/2026

Tree Swallow

5/26/2026

Purple Martin

255/26/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

125/26/2026

Barn Swallow

105/26/2026

Northern House Wren

15/26/2026

European Starling

25/26/2026

American Robin

65/26/2026

House Sparrow

105/26/2026

Savannah Sparrow

25/26/2026

Song Sparrow

25/26/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

5/26/2026

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.