George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

3/6/2026Bahamas4 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

3/4/2026Our Homestead/Farm1 observed

Eastern Bluebird

Sialia sialis

3/4/2026Our Homestead/Farm1 observed

Redpoll

Acanthis flammea

3/3/2026201517 County Road S, Milladore, Wisconsin, US (44.617, -89.792)1 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

2/20/20262135–2145 Morrison Ave, Rothschild US-WI 44.86194, -89.648451 observed

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 George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake for birding?
The best months to visit George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake?
Notable species at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake?
Birding at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake?
George W. Mead State Wildlife Area - South Rice Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.