Prairie State Park

Missouri · Midwest

Habitat
Grassland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Prairie State Park is a productive birding destination in Missouri, with 231 species recorded on eBird. This grassland habitat attracts Northern Harrier, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Red-tailed Hawk 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

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

3/2/2026Bone Creek Lake1 observed

Brewer's Blackbird

Euphagus cyanocephalus

2/26/2026Wah-Sha-She Prairie14 observed

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

2/25/2026Bone Creek Lake1 observed

Northern Shrike

Lanius borealis

2/25/2026Bushwhacker Lake CA1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Harrier

22/20/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

22/20/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

22/20/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

52/20/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/20/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

12/20/2026

Blue Jay

72/20/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

22/20/2026

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 Prairie State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Prairie State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Prairie State Park?
Notable species at Prairie State Park include Northern Harrier, Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports grassland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Prairie State Park?
Birding at Prairie State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Prairie State Park?
Prairie State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.