Mormon Island State Recreation Area

Nebraska · Midwest

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Mormon Island State Recreation Area is a productive birding destination in Nebraska, with 212 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Mallard, American Coot, and Greater White-fronted Goose among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Savannah Sparrow (Savannah)

Passerculus sandwichensis

3/6/2026stakeout Common Crane--Schultz Rd. (2026)1 observed

Common Crane

Grus grus

3/5/2026stakeout Common Crane--Schultz Rd. (2026)2 observed

Smith's Longspur

Calcarius pictus

3/5/2026Harvard WPA @ Rd G & 320 Parking Lot.3 observed

Savannah Sparrow

Passerculus sandwichensis

3/4/2026Harvard WPA1 observed

American Pipit

Anthus rubescens

2/28/2026Harvard WPA2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

103/6/2026

Hooded Merganser

13/6/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

23/6/2026

Sandhill Crane

3/6/2026

Northern Flicker

13/6/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

23/6/2026

European Starling

303/6/2026

American Robin

123/6/2026

Cedar Waxwing

353/6/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

103/6/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

143/6/2026

Mallard

23/3/2026

American Coot

13/3/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

12/27/2026

Cackling Goose

92/27/2026

Common Goldeneye

12/27/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/27/2026

American Goldfinch

12/27/2026

Common Grackle

22/27/2026

Northern Cardinal

12/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  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 Mormon Island State Recreation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Mormon Island State Recreation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Mormon Island State Recreation Area?
Notable species at Mormon Island State Recreation Area include Mallard, American Coot, Greater White-fronted Goose, Cackling Goose, Canada Goose. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Mormon Island State Recreation Area?
Birding at Mormon Island State Recreation Area is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Mormon Island State Recreation Area?
Mormon Island State Recreation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.