Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Wild Turkey 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

553/4/2026

Mallard

23/4/2026

Wild Turkey

13/4/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

13/4/2026

Sandhill Crane

63/4/2026

Bald Eagle

43/4/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

23/4/2026

Rough-legged Hawk

13/4/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

43/4/2026

Blue Jay

33/4/2026

American Crow

83/4/2026

Horned Lark

13/4/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

23/4/2026

Cedar Waxwing

53/4/2026

American Tree Sparrow

53/4/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

23/4/2026

Northern Cardinal

43/4/2026

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 Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area include Canada Goose, Mallard, Wild Turkey, Ring-necked Pheasant, Sandhill Crane. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area?
Cardinal Marsh Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.