Bird Watching in Wisconsin Dells

Calling all bird nerds! Wisconsin Dells is home to some of the most amazing bird species. Our avian friends can be found in these diverse habitats of Wisconsin Dells – from lush forests and sparkling lakes. Bring your binoculars and visit these locations for some of the best bird watching in Wisconsin Dells.  Learn about types of birds you can expect to see, and tips to enhance your bird-watching experience. 

Best Spots for Bird Watching in Wisconsin Dells

Mirror Lake State Park

Mirror Lake State Park kicks off our list for its diversity of landscapes.  Here you’ll find a shimmering lake, wetlands, and dense forests. Naturally, these locales attract a plethora of feathered friends.  

Get started early in the morning with a walk through the park’s trails. You’ll be rewarded by sightings of warblers, woodpeckers, and the elusive great blue heron. Ducks, geese and the majestic trumpeter swan glide across the waters of Mirror Lake. 

Rocky Arbor State Park

Just a short drive from the bustling downtown, Rocky Arbor State Park offers a quieter, more intimate bird-watching experience. It’s easy to spend all day here in this peaceful park. The park’s rocky crags situated beside the pine forests make it a great place to spot birds.  Keep an eye out for the red-headed woodpecker, northern flicker, and different kinds of sparrows. 

Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake State Park, with its dramatic cliffs and expansive lake, is another prime location for bird enthusiasts. The park is home to over 200 species of birds, including raptors like the bald eagle and peregrine falcon! Hike the trails around the lake can see and listen to the melodies of songbirds like the American redstart, indigo bunting, and the colorful scarlet tanager.  

Wisconsin River 

Make your way over to the Wisconsin River, as it flows through the heart of Wisconsin Dells. This is a hotspot for bird watching, especially during migration seasons. The riverbanks and floodplains are full of life. Look up to see ospreys, belted kingfishers, and a variety of shorebirds. Take a boat tour or kayaking along the Wisconsin River for a different perspective and access to less-visited areas. These options increase your chances of spotting different and possibly rare birds! 

Bird Species to Look For

Raptors 

Who doesn’t love birds of prey? Raptors are thrilling to watch, and there are many to be found in Wisconsin Dells. Bald eagles are frequently seen soaring above the Wisconsin River, while red-tailed hawks and Cooper’s hawks patrol the skies above the forests. You can see peregrine falcons doing their speed dive or soaring cliffs of Devil’s Lake. 

Songbirds 

It’s a natural symphony in Wisconsin Dells! Music of songbirds fill the air, from birds like the northern cardinal, American robin, and eastern bluebird. During the spring and fall migrations, the area becomes a corridor for warblers, including the yellow-rumped warbler, black-and-white warbler, and the stunning Blackburnian warbler! 

Waterfowl 

The lakes and rivers in Wisconsin Dells are prime habitats for a variety of waterfowl. Common species include mallards, Canada geese, and wood ducks. In the colder months, you might spot diving ducks such as buffleheads and common mergansers. And it’s a real treat to be able to watch as Trumpeter swans glide across the water.  

Woodpeckers 

Several woodpeckers call Wisconsin Dells home. The large and striking pileated woodpecker is often seen in forests, while the smaller downy and hairy woodpeckers often visit backyard feeders and parks. The red-bellied woodpecker and northern flicker are two other types to watch.  

Tips for Bird Watching 

• Bring the Right Gear: You’ll need a good pair of binoculars. Identify species quickly and efficiently using a field guide or a birding app. Dress in layers and wear comfortable, sturdy footwear for walking the trails.
• Early Mornings Are Best: Birds are most active during the early morning hours, just after sunrise. Plan your bird-watching trips early in the day to increase your chances of spotting different types.
• Be Patient and Quiet: Birds can be skittish, so it’s important to move slowly and quietly. Find a good vantage point, stay still, and let the birds come to you!
• Find a Local Birding Group: Local birding groups often organize guided bird-watching tours and can provide valuable tips and insights. It’s also a great way to meet fellow birdwatchers.
• Keep a Birding Journal: Document your sightings in a birding journal. Note the species, location, and any interesting behaviors you observe. You might even include a photograph or sketch!

Stay at Spring Brook Vacation Home Resort 

The bird watching activities will continue when you stay in a vacation rental from Spring Brook Vacation Home Resort. Our selection of vacation rentals is located in the heart of nature, where you are surrounded by trees, beautiful landscapes and of course – birds! Reach out to Spring Brook today and start planning your trip. 

Looking for Wisconsin Dells Vacation Rentals? Click here!