Manitowoc Lakefront

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily

About This Location

Manitowoc Lakefront is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 298 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and American Black Duck 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

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

3/5/2026Manitowoc Lakefront2 observed

White-winged Crossbill

Loxia leucoptera

3/3/2026Home4 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

2/28/2026Collins Marsh SWA2 observed

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

2/28/2026Woodland Dunes Nature Center--HQ & Cattail Trail1 observed

Ruddy Duck

Oxyura jamaicensis

2/27/2026Manitowoc Yacht Club1 observed

Green-winged Teal

Anas crecca

2/27/2026Manitowoc Impoundment4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

603/5/2026

Mallard

153/5/2026

American Black Duck

33/5/2026

Redhead

83/5/2026

Greater Scaup

253/5/2026

Lesser Scaup

63/5/2026

Bufflehead

33/5/2026

Common Goldeneye

353/5/2026

Hooded Merganser

23/5/2026

Common Merganser

93/5/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

273/5/2026

Mourning Dove

93/5/2026

Sandhill Crane

23/5/2026

American Herring Gull

1303/5/2026

Glaucous Gull

43/5/2026

Iceland Gull

13/5/2026

Bald Eagle

13/5/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

13/5/2026

Peregrine Falcon

13/5/2026

American Crow

13/5/2026

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.

  4. 4

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

  5. 5

    Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Manitowoc Lakefront for birding?
The best months to visit Manitowoc Lakefront for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Manitowoc Lakefront?
Notable species at Manitowoc Lakefront include Canada Goose, Mallard, American Black Duck, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Mourning Dove, American Herring Gull, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, House Sparrow. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Manitowoc Lakefront?
Birding at Manitowoc Lakefront is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Manitowoc Lakefront?
There is no entrance fee at Manitowoc Lakefront. Hours: Open daily.
What amenities are available at Manitowoc Lakefront?
Manitowoc Lakefront offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.