Nahant Marsh

Iowa · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Nahant Marsh is a productive birding destination in Iowa, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, and Hooded Merganser 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

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

3/3/2026Fisherman’s Corner Recreation Area1 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

2/28/2026MidAmerican Energy Building2 observed

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

2/23/2026Fairmount Cemetery NW, Davenport 41.51312, -90.639551 observed

Double-crested Cormorant

Nannopterum auritum

2/21/2026Mississippi River Lock & Dam 14 (Iowa)7 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

103/5/2026

Mallard

63/5/2026

Ring-necked Duck

43/5/2026

Mourning Dove

13/5/2026

American Coot

83/5/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/5/2026

American Robin

63/5/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

83/5/2026

Song Sparrow

23/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

43/5/2026

Hooded Merganser

63/3/2026

Sandhill Crane

13/3/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/3/2026

Common Grackle

13/3/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/3/2026

Lesser Scaup

123/3/2026

House Sparrow

23/3/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

13/2/2026

Gadwall

43/2/2026

Rock Pigeon

3/2/2026

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