Ridges Sanctuary

Wisconsin · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Ridges Sanctuary is a productive birding destination in Wisconsin, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Great Horned Owl, and Northern Saw-whet Owl 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

Horned Grebe

Podiceps auritus

3/4/2026Cave Point County Park4 observed

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

2/21/2026Baileys Harbor Yacht Club2 observed

Gadwall

Mareca strepera

2/21/2026North Bay1 observed

Winter Wren

Troglodytes hiemalis

2/21/2026Bay Shore Blufflands Preserve2 observed

Purple Finch

Haemorhous purpureus

2/21/2026Backyard1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

American Herring Gull

13/6/2026

American Crow

23/6/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

83/6/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

23/6/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/6/2026

Canada Goose

13/3/2026

Great Horned Owl

13/3/2026

Northern Saw-whet Owl

13/3/2026

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ridges Sanctuary for birding?
The best months to visit Ridges Sanctuary for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ridges Sanctuary?
Notable species at Ridges Sanctuary include Canada Goose, Great Horned Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Black-capped Chickadee, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ridges Sanctuary?
Birding at Ridges Sanctuary is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ridges Sanctuary?
Ridges Sanctuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.