Cooley Lake CA

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cooley Lake CA is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 257 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Turkey Vulture, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Horned Lark 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

Northern Flicker (Red-shafted)

Colaptes auratus

3/1/2026Burr Oak Woods CA1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

2/25/2026Blue Springs Lake--Fleming Park Wetland5 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Turkey Vulture

13/1/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/1/2026

Horned Lark

43/1/2026

American Robin

203/1/2026

Cedar Waxwing

163/1/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

403/1/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/1/2026

Snow Goose

1202/21/2026

Mourning Dove

22/21/2026

Killdeer

12/21/2026

Downy Woodpecker

52/21/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Northern Flicker

32/21/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

72/21/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

12/21/2026

Carolina Wren

22/21/2026

American Goldfinch

22/21/2026

Fox Sparrow

22/21/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

32/21/2026

White-throated Sparrow

72/21/2026

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 Cooley Lake CA for birding?
The best months to visit Cooley Lake CA for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cooley Lake CA?
Notable species at Cooley Lake CA include Turkey Vulture, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Horned Lark, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cooley Lake CA?
Birding at Cooley Lake CA is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cooley Lake CA?
Cooley Lake CA offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.