Hovey Lake FWA

Indiana · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Hovey Lake FWA is a productive birding destination in Indiana, with 231 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Gadwall, and Canvasback 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

Dunlin

Calidris alpina

3/4/2026Sloughs WMA, Sauerheber Unit--Hardy Slough2 observed

Pectoral Sandpiper

Calidris melanotos

3/2/2026Sloughs WMA, Sauerheber Unit--Hardy Slough1 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

2/27/20261450 E, New Haven US-IL (37.9250,-88.1084)35 observed

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

2/23/20265227-4245 Saline Mine Road, Shawneetown, Illinois, US (37.64, -88.182)2 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

2/23/202613299 Illinois 1, Junction, Illinois, US (37.765, -88.285)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

12/21/2026

Gadwall

2/21/2026

Canvasback

12/21/2026

Ring-necked Duck

2/21/2026

Turkey Vulture

52/21/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Blue Jay

12/21/2026

American Crow

22/21/2026

Carolina Chickadee

12/21/2026

Tufted Titmouse

12/21/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

12/21/2026

Carolina Wren

12/21/2026

Field Sparrow

12/21/2026

White-throated Sparrow

22/21/2026

Swamp Sparrow

12/21/2026

Northern Cardinal

22/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Hovey Lake FWA for birding?
The best months to visit Hovey Lake FWA for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Hovey Lake FWA?
Notable species at Hovey Lake FWA include Canada Goose, Gadwall, Canvasback, Ring-necked Duck, Turkey Vulture. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Hovey Lake FWA?
Birding at Hovey Lake FWA is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Hovey Lake FWA?
Hovey Lake FWA offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.