Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 267 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Bufflehead 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

Barrow's Goldeneye

Bucephala islandica

3/6/2026Tenney Park1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

3/5/2026Fish Camp Park, Lake Kegonsa3 observed

Iceland Gull (Thayer's)

Larus glaucoides

3/5/2026McDaniel Park1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

3/5/2026Yahara Heights County Park/Cherokee Marsh Natural Resource Area—West Trailhead1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

3/6/2026

Northern Shoveler

53/6/2026

Mallard

3/6/2026

Redhead

43/6/2026

Ring-necked Duck

253/6/2026

Lesser Scaup

43/6/2026

Bufflehead

303/6/2026

Common Goldeneye

43/6/2026

Hooded Merganser

63/6/2026

Common Merganser

63/6/2026

Sandhill Crane

43/6/2026

Killdeer

53/6/2026

Cooper's Hawk

13/6/2026

Blue Jay

13/6/2026

European Starling

103/6/2026

American Robin

3/6/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

3/6/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/6/2026

Cackling Goose

23/4/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/4/2026

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 Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) for birding?
The best months to visit Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)?
Notable species at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) include Canada Goose, Mallard, Bufflehead, Sandhill Crane, Cackling Goose, Great Horned Owl, Eastern Screech-Owl, American Robin, House Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Northern Cardinal. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)?
Birding at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)?
There is no entrance fee at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area). Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area)?
Nine Springs Natural Area (MMSD Wildlife Observation Area) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.