The state of Wisconsin, renowned for its lush landscapes and rich biodiversity, boasts an impressive variety of water bird species. Nestled within the state’s vibrant wetlands, rivers, and lakes, these birds display an array of striking colors, unique behaviors, and fascinating adaptations.
Wisconsin water birds
| Water Bird Species | Frequency in Wisconsin | Specific Locations in Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| American White Pelican | Uncommon | Lower Wisconsin River, Horicon Marsh |
| Double-Crested Cormorant | Very Common | Great Lakes, Mississippi River |
| Great Blue Heron | Very Common | Statewide, especially near water bodies |
| Great Egret | Common | Horicon Marsh, Mississippi River |
| Snowy Egret | Rare | Occasionally sighted in Horicon Marsh |
| Green Heron | Common | Wetland areas, especially in southern Wisconsin |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Uncommon | Urban areas, Horicon Marsh |
| Mallard | Very Common | Statewide in ponds and lakes |
| Wood Duck | Common | Statewide in forested wetlands |
| Blue-Winged Teal | Common | Statewide, especially in marshes |
| Northern Pintail | Uncommon | Horicon Marsh, Mississippi River |
| Redhead | Uncommon | Mississippi River, Green Bay |
| Ring-Necked Duck | Common | Northern Wisconsin, especially in forested areas |
| Bufflehead | Common | Statewide during migration |
| Hooded Merganser | Common | Statewide, especially in forested wetlands |
| Common Merganser | Common | Statewide, especially in rivers and larger lakes |
| American Coot | Common | Statewide in larger bodies of water |
| Sandhill Crane | Common | Statewide, especially in open grasslands |
| American Wigeon | Uncommon | Horicon Marsh, Mississippi River |
| Common Loon | Common | Northern Wisconsin, especially in forested areas |
Water Bird Species Found in Wisconsin
Where to Spot Wisconsin’s Water Birds
Horicon National Wildlife Refuge, Mayville: This expansive wetland area is a critical rest stop for migrating waterfowl and a breeding ground for many wetland birds. The refuge is especially known for its population of Canada geese.
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Rhinelander: This northern forest contains hundreds of lakes and wetlands that provide ample habitat for water birds like loons, herons, and various ducks.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Bayfield: This archipelago in Lake Superior is a haven for many species of water birds. Gulls, terns, and waterfowl can often be seen here.
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, Necedah: Hosting a vast array of habitats from wetlands to prairies, this refuge is a significant stopover site for migrating waterfowl and home to the endangered whooping crane.
Crex Meadows Wildlife Area, Grantsburg: As one of Wisconsin’s most important bird areas, it hosts a large variety of waterfowl and shorebirds, particularly during migration periods.
| Neighboring State | Best Spots for Birdwatching |
|---|---|
| Minnesota Water Birds | Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge |
| Iowa Water Birds | Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, Union Slough National Wildlife Refuge |
| Illinois Water Birds | Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Starved Rock State Park, Mississippi Palisades State Park |
| Michigan Water Birds | Seney National Wildlife Refuge, Tawas Point State Park, Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area |
FAQS on Waterbirds in Wisconsin
What is the large water bird in Wisconsin?
One of the large water birds frequently seen in Wisconsin is the American White Pelican. With a wingspan reaching over 9 feet, this pelican is easily recognizable by its pure white plumage and large, orange bill. During the summer months, it can often be spotted on Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers.
What kind of birds swim underwater in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the Common Loon is a notable bird that swims underwater. Recognized by its black and white patterned plumage and haunting calls, the Common Loon is an adept diver, plunging below the water’s surface to catch fish. Another bird that dives underwater in the state is the Double-crested Cormorant, which can often be seen emerging from the water with a fish in its beak.
What is the rarest bird in Wisconsin?
The Kirtland’s Warbler is among the rarest birds in Wisconsin. This small songbird requires young jack pine forests for breeding, a habitat that has diminished over time due to fire suppression and land development. While the majority of its population breeds in Michigan, a smaller number nest in Wisconsin. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect its specific habitat needs.
In Wisconsin, the diverse ecosystems offer habitats for various bird species, ranging from wading birds to small birds like the New World sparrows. Along the shores of Lake Michigan and in the wetlands of southern Wisconsin, wading birds forage in the shallows, while bald eagles soar overhead, their diets consisting mostly of fish. Interestingly, while Wisconsin hosts a variety of New World sparrows, it does not naturally house Old World sparrows, world quail, or world vultures. The state’s bird life truly reflects the richness of its landscapes, from the great lakeside to its interior forests and fields.