The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General

Wisconsin · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird
Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This 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

Great Blue HeronRed-winged BlackbirdMallardGreen HeronVirginia Rail

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

3/3/2026Horicon Marsh SWA--Education and Visitor Center1 observed

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

3/1/2026Campbell Dr (Timberline to Hilltop)1 observed

Glaucous Gull

Larus hyperboreus

2/24/2026Horicon Marsh SWA--Education and Visitor Center1 observed

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.

Amenities

Parking
Trails

More in Wisconsin

Horicon Marsh

Largest US cattail marsh with massive fall goose concentrations and breeding marsh birds.

6th Avenue Marsh

Wetland birding hotspot in Wisconsin with 227 recorded species.

Adam Birding Conservancy

Grassland birding hotspot in Wisconsin with 217 recorded species.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City: The Complete Urban Migration Guide

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General for birding?▼
The best months to visit Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General?▼
Notable species at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General?▼
Birding at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General?▼
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area - General offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.