South Dakota is not just about Mount Rushmore and the Badlands; it’s also home to an exciting and diverse population of water birds. With its extensive river systems and numerous lakes, South Dakota provides ideal habitats for 26 different species of water birds.
South Dakota water birds
| Water Bird Species | Frequency in South Dakota | Specific Locations in South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| American White Pelican | Very Common | Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
| Double-Crested Cormorant | Very Common | Lake Thompson Recreation Area |
| Great Blue Heron | Very Common | Missouri River and its tributaries |
| Great Egret | Common | Eastern SD wetlands, especially Waubay National Wildlife Refuge |
| Snowy Egret | Uncommon | Waubay National Wildlife Refuge during migration |
| Green Heron | Common | Along the Missouri River and its tributaries |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Common | Waubay National Wildlife Refuge |
| Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron | Uncommon | Occasional in the eastern SD wetlands |
| Mallard | Very Common | Wetlands statewide |
| Wood Duck | Common | Eastern SD woodlands and riparian zones |
| Blue-Winged Teal | Very Common | Wetlands statewide |
| Northern Pintail | Common | Wetlands statewide, especially during migration |
| Canvasback | Common | Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
| Redhead | Common | Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
| Ring-Necked Duck | Common | Freshwater wetlands statewide |
| Bufflehead | Uncommon | Lake Thompson Recreation Area during migration |
| Hooded Merganser | Common | Eastern SD woodlands and riparian zones |
| Common Merganser | Common | Along the Missouri River and its tributaries |
| Ruddy Duck | Uncommon | Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
| American Coot | Very Common | Wetlands statewide |
| Sandhill Crane | Uncommon | Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge during migration |
| American Wigeon | Common | Wetlands statewide, especially during migration |
| Osprey | Uncommon | Missouri River area |
| Common Loon | Uncommon | Lakes in the northeastern part of the state during migration |
| Pied-Billed Grebe | Common | Wetlands statewide |
| American Bittern | Uncommon | Waubay National Wildlife Refuge |
Water Bird Species Found in South Dakota
Where to Spot South Dakota’s Water Birds
Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Columbia: This refuge is a hotspot for migratory birds, especially water birds. With its vast wetlands, it provides a great habitat for species like the American White Pelican, Western Grebe, and Mallard.
Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Andes: This refuge is known for its massive wintering populations of Northern Pintails and other water birds like Bufflehead and American Coots.
Custer State Park, Custer: Not just famous for its bison, the park also houses numerous lakes attracting a wide variety of water birds including the Double-Crested Cormorant, Mallard, and Great Blue Heron.
Bear Butte State Park, Sturgis: The lake in this park is a gathering point for many water birds like Snowy Egrets, Green Herons, and Black-Crowned Night-Herons.
LaFramboise Island Nature Area, Pierre: Located on the Missouri River, this spot is perfect for birdwatchers with species like the White-Faced Ibis, Greater Scaup, and Northern Shoveler making regular appearances.
| Neighboring State | Best Spots for Birdwatching |
|---|---|
| North Dakota Water Birds | Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge, J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge, Audubon National Wildlife Refuge |
| Minnesota Water Birds | Superior National Forest, Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge |
| Iowa Water Birds | Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, Hawkeye Wildlife Management Area |
| Nebraska Water Birds | Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Rainwater Basin Wetland Management District, Niobrara National Scenic River |
| Wyoming Water Birds | Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park |
| Montana Water Birds | Glacier National Park, Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge |
FAQS on Waterbirds in south dakota
What are some of the common waterbirds found in South Dakota?
South Dakota is home to a vast variety of waterbirds. The Snow Geese, known for forming huge flocks, are among the most common, particularly in the Fort Pierre National Grasslands. This location is also a habitat for the American Dipper, a unique bird that swims underwater to feed. The Black Tern (Chlidonias niger), distinguished by its short bill and excellent swimming abilities, is another species that thrives in the state’s aquatic habitats.
How many birds species can be found in South Dakota?
The South Dakota Ornithologists Union has documented over 400 varied species in the state, including both waterbirds and other species. Of these, about twenty species tend to be common waterbirds, varying from small birds like the Piping Plover to large birds.
Where can I spot waterbirds in South Dakota?
Many of South Dakota’s natural parks and grasslands provide excellent habitats for waterbirds. Fort Pierre National Grasslands, with its mix of ponds and grasslands, is a hotspot for Snow Geese and the occasional Cattle Egret and ring necked pheasant. The Piping Plover, a small bird with a distinct, melodious call, can be seen near bodies of water in the Badlands National Park. Among the varied species of birds found in South Dakota, the Grasshopper Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, and Northern Harrier are particularly cherished by birdwatchers and naturalists alike.
What are the nesting birds among the waterbird species in South Dakota?
Several waterbirds in South Dakota are nesting birds. The Piping Plover, known for its small size and melodious call, is a notable example, creating its nest near lakes and rivers. Similarly, the Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) nests in marshy areas, often on floating vegetation due to its excellent swimming abilities.