Izaak Walton Wetlands

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Izaak Walton Wetlands is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Mallard, Barred Owl, and Downy 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

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

3/5/20261087–1131 US-14 W, Rochester US-MN (44.0070,-92.4766)2 observed

American Woodcock

Scolopax minor

3/2/2026County 9 Marsh1 observed

Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon)

Junco hyemalis

2/28/2026Home1 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (Krider's)

Buteo jamaicensis

2/27/2026Oakwood Cemetery--Rochester1 observed

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

2/27/20266162–6498 51st St NE, Rochester US-MN 44.07523, -92.339244 observed

White-winged Crossbill

Loxia leucoptera

2/26/2026Oxbow Park Drive, Byron, Minnesota, US (44.075, -92.65)3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

123/3/2026

Barred Owl

23/3/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/3/2026

American Crow

13/3/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

33/3/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

43/3/2026

American Tree Sparrow

63/3/2026

Northern Cardinal

23/3/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Izaak Walton Wetlands for birding?
The best months to visit Izaak Walton Wetlands for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Izaak Walton Wetlands?
Notable species at Izaak Walton Wetlands include Mallard, Barred Owl, Downy Woodpecker, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Izaak Walton Wetlands?
Birding at Izaak Walton Wetlands is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Izaak Walton Wetlands?
Izaak Walton Wetlands offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.