Independence Dam State Park

Ohio · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Independence Dam State Park is a productive birding destination in Ohio, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Bald Eagle 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

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

2/27/2026Independence Dam SP1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

2/21/202643512, Defiance US-OH (41.2999,-84.4372)1 observed

Wood Duck

Aix sponsa

2/21/2026Independence Dam SP2 observed

Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus

2/20/202613401 County Road 171, Defiance, Ohio, US (41.176, -84.442)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

302/27/2026

Mallard

202/27/2026

Bald Eagle

122/27/2026

Mute Swan

52/27/2026

Common Goldeneye

82/27/2026

Hooded Merganser

22/27/2026

Common Merganser

182/27/2026

Mourning Dove

22/27/2026

Ring-billed Gull

82/27/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

32/27/2026

Northern Flicker

12/27/2026

Blue Jay

62/27/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

12/27/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

32/27/2026

American Robin

52/27/2026

House Sparrow

22/27/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

52/27/2026

Northern Cardinal

32/27/2026

American Wigeon

12/21/2026

Ring-necked Duck

152/21/2026

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 Independence Dam State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Independence Dam State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Independence Dam State Park?
Notable species at Independence Dam State Park include Canada Goose, Mallard, Bald Eagle, Mute Swan, Common Goldeneye. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Independence Dam State Park?
Birding at Independence Dam State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Independence Dam State Park?
Independence Dam State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.