Forest Beach Migratory Preserve

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
CoastalForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Forest Beach Migratory Preserve is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 267 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and forest habitat attracts Sandhill Crane, American Crow, and Black-capped Chickadee 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

Great Tit

Parus major

3/4/2026Yard1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

3/2/202610532 Cedar Creek Rd, Cedarburg US-WI 43.33689, -88.044052 observed

Common Goldeneye x Hooded Merganser (hybrid)

Bucephala clangula x Lophodytes cucullatus

2/26/2026Hwy. County W1 observed

Common Raven

Corvus corax

2/21/2026Sandy Beach Lane from Sandy Beach Rd to its northern terminus , Belgium, Wisconsin, US (43.471, -87.803)1 observed

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

2/21/2026Sandy Beach Lane from Sandy Beach Rd to its northern terminus , Belgium, Wisconsin, US (43.471, -87.803)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Sandhill Crane

43/3/2026

American Crow

13/3/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

13/3/2026

Canada Goose

82/28/2026

Mourning Dove

52/28/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/28/2026

Blue Jay

32/28/2026

American Goldfinch

22/28/2026

American Tree Sparrow

62/28/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

82/28/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

82/28/2026

Northern Cardinal

42/28/2026

Cedar Waxwing

42/25/2026

House Sparrow

22/25/2026

House Finch

52/25/2026

Common Goldeneye

12/25/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/25/2026

American Robin

12/25/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/21/2026

American Kestrel

12/21/2026

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 Forest Beach Migratory Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Forest Beach Migratory Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve?
Notable species at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve include Sandhill Crane, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Canada Goose, Mourning Dove. The area supports coastal, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve?
Birding at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Forest Beach Migratory Preserve?
Forest Beach Migratory Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.