Midwest · Mississippi Flyway
Birds in Iowa
Birds in Iowa: Iowa's river corridors and tallgrass prairie remnants support migrating waterfowl and grassland birds. This guide lists the common backyard birds, a month-by-month calendar, and the best places to go bird watching in Iowa.
Popular cities in Iowa:
Common Birds in Iowa
The most frequently reported bird species across Iowa. Click any bird for full profiles, photos, calls, and attraction tips.
Backyard Birds in Iowa
Iowa backyard birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens. These are the species you’re most likely to attract with the right food, plants, and habitat setup.
Where to Go Bird Watching in Iowa
The best places to see birds in Iowa, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge
Missouri River floodplain—Snow Geese in fall.
Birds in Iowa by Month
What to expect each month: migration arrivals, departures, and seasonal highlights.
Birds by Habitat in Iowa
Iowa spans 3 major habitat types. Explore birds adapted to each environment.
Birds in neighboring states
About birding in Iowa
Iowa is located in the Midwest region of the United States and falls along the Mississippi Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 390 bird species across 3 habitat types: wetland, forest, urban.
Whether you’re a backyard birder in Des Moines or planning a trip to DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Iowa.