UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
WetlandForestUrban Park
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 200 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and forest habitat attracts Sandhill Crane, Bald Eagle, and Red-tailed Hawk 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

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

3/6/2026Vilas Park2 observed

Barrow's Goldeneye

Bucephala islandica

3/6/2026Tenney Park1 observed

Iceland Gull (Thayer's)

Larus glaucoides

3/5/2026McDaniel Park1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

3/5/2026Yahara Heights County Park/Cherokee Marsh Natural Resource Area—West Trailhead1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Bald Eagle

23/6/2026

American Robin

23/6/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

73/6/2026

Sandhill Crane

13/2/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

13/2/2026

American Crow

72/28/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

32/28/2026

Northern Cardinal

2/28/2026

White-throated Sparrow

2/27/2026

Canada Goose

2/27/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/27/2026

Mourning Dove

22/26/2026

European Starling

12/26/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh for birding?
The best months to visit UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh?
Notable species at UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh include Sandhill Crane, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-winged Blackbird, American Crow. The area supports wetland, forest, urban park habitats.
How difficult is birding at UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh?
Birding at UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh?
UW Madison Arboretum - Gardner Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.