Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 240 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Red-tailed Hawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, and Downy Woodpecker 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

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

3/2/2026Greene2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-tailed Hawk

13/1/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

13/1/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/1/2026

House Sparrow

43/1/2026

House Finch

13/1/2026

American Goldfinch

13/1/2026

American Tree Sparrow

13/1/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

33/1/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/1/2026

Canada Goose

1503/1/2026

Trumpeter Swan

93/1/2026

Gadwall

43/1/2026

Lesser Scaup

83/1/2026

Rock Pigeon

83/1/2026

Bald Eagle

13/1/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/1/2026

Northern Shrike

13/1/2026

American Crow

303/1/2026

Song Sparrow

33/1/2026

Mallard

2/28/2026

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 Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area include Red-tailed Hawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, House Sparrow, House Finch. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.