Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area

Nebraska · Midwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in Nebraska, with 200 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Trumpeter Swan 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Cackling Goose

502/26/2026

Canada Goose

3002/26/2026

Trumpeter Swan

22/26/2026

Mallard

52/26/2026

Northern Pintail

102/26/2026

Green-winged Teal

52/26/2026

Canvasback

202/26/2026

Redhead

1202/26/2026

Bufflehead

202/26/2026

Common Goldeneye

12/26/2026

Common Merganser

602/26/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

12/26/2026

Ring-billed Gull

102/26/2026

American Herring Gull

12/26/2026

Bald Eagle

12/26/2026

Great Horned Owl

12/26/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

12/26/2026

Northern Flicker

12/26/2026

American Crow

52/26/2026

Horned Lark

22/26/2026

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 Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Mallard, Northern Pintail. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area?
Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.