Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 210 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Northern Bobwhite

Colinus virginianus

3/4/2026Kame1 observed

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

2/28/2026Redwood Ave, Jefferson US-IA 41.94547, -94.289991 observed

Western Meadowlark

Sturnella neglecta

2/22/2026Dunbar Slough WMA--250th St.16 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

2/22/2026Dunbar Slough WMA--270th St. pool1 observed

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 Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area?
Dunbar Slough Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.