Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail

Connecticut · Northeast

ModerateView on eBird

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

SpringFall

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail is a productive birding destination in Connecticut, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Red-shouldered Hawk, American Crow, and Brown Creeper among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

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Notable Species

Red-shouldered Hawk American Crow Brown Creeper American Tree Sparrow

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

3/6/2026100 Windermere Avenue, Ellington, Connecticut, US (41.876, -72.476)2 observed

Sandhill Crane (Greater)

Antigone canadensis

3/5/2026Lower Butcher Rd fields and ponds2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-shouldered Hawk

12/22/2026

American Crow

22/22/2026

Brown Creeper

12/22/2026

American Tree Sparrow

22/22/2026

Birding Tips

1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Connecticut

Hammonasset Beach State Park

Connecticut's top birding spot with 300+ species along Long Island Sound.

Bantam Lake

Lake birding hotspot in Connecticut with 213 recorded species.

Barn Island Wildlife Management Area

Coastal birding hotspot in Connecticut with 288 recorded species.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City: The Complete Urban Migration Guide

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail for birding?▼

The best months to visit Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.

What birds can I see at Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail?▼

Notable species at Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail include Red-shouldered Hawk, American Crow, Brown Creeper, American Tree Sparrow. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail?▼

Birding at Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail?▼

Mansfield Lake/Airport Trail offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.