Cross Lake

Louisiana · Southeast

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Cross Lake is a productive birding destination in Louisiana, with 245 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Northern Shoveler, Canvasback, and Lesser Scaup among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

Loading map...

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

Glaucous Gull

Larus hyperboreus

3/2/2026Cross Lake Municipal Pier1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

2/28/2026Red River NWR -- Lake Trail9 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

2/28/2026Charlotte’s house1 observed

Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted)

Colaptes auratus

2/28/2026Ford Park1 observed

Bewick's Wren

Thryomanes bewickii

2/27/2026Sentell Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Shoveler

22/28/2026

Canvasback

152/28/2026

Lesser Scaup

442/28/2026

Bufflehead

612/28/2026

Ruddy Duck

31142/28/2026

Rock Pigeon

72/28/2026

Mourning Dove

22/28/2026

American Coot

182/28/2026

Killdeer

22/28/2026

Ring-billed Gull

24742/28/2026

American Herring Gull

262/28/2026

Lesser Black-backed Gull

32/28/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

29492/28/2026

Neotropic Cormorant

412/28/2026

Great Egret

482/28/2026

Great Blue Heron

172/28/2026

American White Pelican

2052/28/2026

Black Vulture

242/28/2026

Turkey Vulture

72/28/2026

Cooper's Hawk

12/28/2026

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cross Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Cross Lake for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Cross Lake?
Notable species at Cross Lake include Northern Shoveler, Canvasback, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cross Lake?
Birding at Cross Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cross Lake?
Cross Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.