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Species Breeding Dates and Habitats

 

Many of the birds we see in Iowa are migrating further north for the breeding season or on their way back in late summer.  Use this list to help with the approximate early and late breeding dates as well as typical nesting habitat.  Remember, this is a project related to breeding birds only.  Other interesting observations should be reported through seasonal field reports .  Click on the header labels to sort.

 

SpeciesEarly DateLate DateHabitat
Canada Goose15-March15-JulyWetlands
Trumpeter Swan15-March15-JulyDense marsh vegetation
Wood Duck15-April31-AugustWoods near water
Gadwall20-May31-JulyWetlands
American Wigeon15-May31-JulyWetland-open water
American Black Duck01-May30-JuneWetland-open water
Mallard01-May31-JulyWetlands
Blue-winged Teal20-May31-JulyWetlands
Northern Shoveler01-June15-AugustWetlands
Northern Pintail01-May30-JuneWetlands
Green-winged Teal20-May31-JulyWetlands
Canvasback20-May31-JulyPrairie Marshes
Redhead20-May31-JulyWetlands
Ring-necked Duck20-May31-JulySedge Meadow Marshes
Lesser Scaup20-May31-JulyMarshes, ponds
Bufflehead20-May31-JulyTree cavities
Hooded Merganser01-May15-JulyWoods near water
Ruddy Duck01-June15-AugustWetlands
Gray Partridge15-May15-AugustFarmland
Ring-necked Pheasant15-April31-AugustFarmland, brush
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