Pelican Lake

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Pelican Lake is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 231 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Rock Pigeon 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

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

3/4/2026Elsie Stephens Park1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/4/2026Edward Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

503/5/2026

Trumpeter Swan

83/5/2026

Rock Pigeon

73/5/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

23/5/2026

Mourning Dove

13/5/2026

Sandhill Crane

23/5/2026

Bald Eagle

33/5/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

13/5/2026

Blue Jay

113/5/2026

American Crow

63/5/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

33/5/2026

Horned Lark

13/5/2026

European Starling

563/5/2026

American Robin

73/5/2026

House Sparrow

23/5/2026

House Finch

63/5/2026

American Goldfinch

43/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

13/5/2026

Northern Cardinal

33/5/2026

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 Pelican Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Pelican Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Pelican Lake?
Notable species at Pelican Lake include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Rock Pigeon, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Mourning Dove. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pelican Lake?
Birding at Pelican Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Pelican Lake?
Pelican Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.