Rose Lake State Wildlife Area

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rose Lake State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Sandhill Crane, and Red-bellied 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

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

3/6/202616789 Chandler Rd, East Lansing US-MI 42.77375, -84.480431 observed

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

3/5/2026Indian Lakes Neighborhood1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

3/4/20263684 W Howell Rd, Mason US-MI 42.59675, -84.490886 observed

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

3/3/2026Fenner Nature Center1 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

3/2/2026Airport Rd & Centerline Rd1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

13/4/2026

Sandhill Crane

13/4/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

23/4/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/4/2026

Blue Jay

23/4/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

13/4/2026

Tufted Titmouse

23/4/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

13/4/2026

American Robin

53/4/2026

House Sparrow

43/4/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

23/4/2026

Common Grackle

13/4/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/4/2026

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

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Rose Lake State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Rose Lake State Wildlife Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rose Lake State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Rose Lake State Wildlife Area include Canada Goose, Sandhill Crane, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Blue Jay. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rose Lake State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Rose Lake State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rose Lake State Wildlife Area?
Rose Lake State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.