Birding in South Dakota

South Dakota’s diverse terrain, from rolling hills to sky-piercing granite peaks to lush mountain meadows and prairie marshes and lakes, is home to nearly 400 species of birds. Our unique combination of landscapes and diversity of bird species is stunning – perfect for the bird watching enthusiast.

Our parks and natural areas showcase both rare and common birds. Experience our abundant populations of waterfowl. Spot endangered species like the bald eagle, peregrine falcon or whooping crane. Encounter burrowing owls in their wild, natural habitat.

South Dakota is truly a birder’s paradise. (See our downloadable trail guides below.)

Glacial Lakes and Prairies Birding Trail

Northeastern South Dakota’s geologic history has created a wonderful habitat for birds. Hundreds of large and small pothole lakes were formed when glaciers receded 10,000 years ago. Here you will find one of the most productive waterfowl breeding areas in North America. There are also deciduous and coniferous woodlands and numerous marshes and wetlands where you can see woodland songbirds, marsh birds, shorebirds and raptors. Situated on the overlapping Central and Mississippi migratory flyways, the area also hosts millions of migrating birds each spring and fall.

Southeast South Dakota Birding Trail

Southeastern South Dakota’s landscape is characterized by largely undulating prairie cut by three large rivers and their tributaries. Remnants of the most western-reaching fingers of the nation’s eastern deciduous forests extend to the Big Sioux River. Prairie stands of cottonwood, ash, boxelder and elm dot the James and Missouri river corridors. Glacier-formed pothole lakes are scattered throughout the region. Significant areas of grassland habitat attract prairie species. The Missouri River provides sandbars and miles-long reservoirs with quiet bays where many species of waterfowl, gulls and terns may be found. The region’s woodlands are a magnet for three dozen species of warblers. Prairie pothole lakes and wetlands teem with marsh birds, shorebirds and wetland species. Watch for raptors soaring over the entire region.

Download comprehensive guides, featuring tips, maps and a checklist, for each trail.  (These are PDF files and you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view.)

• Glacial Lakes and Prairies Birding Trail (1 MB)
• Southeast South Dakota Birding Trail (1.2 MB)

More birding information:

Bird Watching Guide (South Dakota State Parks - PDF)

Birding Checklist (South Dakota State Parks - PDF)

Department of Game, Fish and Parks