Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 275 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Trumpeter Swan, Ring-necked Pheasant, 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

Hooded Merganser

Lophodytes cucullatus

3/4/2026Wood River/Lake area1 observed

Northern Flicker

Colaptes auratus

2/24/202622180 Spirit Lake Rd E, Frederic US-WI 45.71984, -92.556571 observed

Fox Sparrow

Passerella iliaca

2/21/2026River Wood Trail1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

103/1/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

13/1/2026

Bald Eagle

43/1/2026

Great Horned Owl

13/1/2026

American Crow

33/1/2026

Common Raven

13/1/2026

Horned Lark

13/1/2026

American Goldfinch

13/1/2026

Snow Bunting

63/1/2026

Wild Turkey

362/23/2026

Rough-legged Hawk

42/23/2026

Blue Jay

32/23/2026

American Tree Sparrow

42/23/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/22/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

22/22/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area include Trumpeter Swan, Ring-necked Pheasant, Bald Eagle, Great Horned Owl, American Crow. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area?
Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.