Winter Birding in Nauvoo

Winter is one of the most rewarding—and often overlooked—times for birdwatching in Nauvoo. As ice forms on surrounding waterways, open stretches of the Mississippi River attract large birds that are easier to spot against the stark winter landscape. With fewer leaves on the trees and less foot traffic, winter offers quiet, dramatic birding opportunities.

Winter is peak eagle season in Nauvoo. Bald eagles gather along the Mississippi River to fish in open water and perch in tall trees. A nesting pair at the end of Parley Street often draws attention, especially as nesting activity begins in late winter. The pair of eagles are a community favorite, but many eagles can be seen from the Riverwalk.

Open water along the river attracts a variety of ducks and water birds during the colder months, including:

• Mallard

• Common Goldeneye

• Bufflehead

• Common Merganser

• Red-breasted Merganser

• Hooded Merganser

• Canada Goose

• Tundra Swan

• Common Coot

• American White Pelican (early winter)

These birds are often seen floating in groups or taking off dramatically from the river’s surface.

Winter is an excellent time to listen and look for owls, as bare branches make them easier to spot:

• Great Horned Owl

• Eastern Screech Owl

• Barred Owl

• Northern Saw-whet Owl

• Snowy Owl (irregular but possible during irruption years)

Even in winter, Nauvoo’s feeders, woodlots, and neighborhoods remain active with:

• Northern Cardinal

• Black-capped Chickadee

• Carolina Chickadee

• Tufted Titmouse

• White-breasted Nuthatch

• Red-bellied Woodpecker

• Downy Woodpecker

• Hairy Woodpecker

• Dark-eyed Junco

• American Goldfinch

The end of Parley Street offers one of the best winter wildlife viewing opportunities in Nauvoo. From here, visitors can watch bald eagles fishing, soaring, and tending their nest, often visible from a safe distance. The birdwatching scope is free to use to watch the eagles and other birds on the river. The Riverwalk Platform with its benches and convenient location is the perfect place to sit and watch the world float by.

The Riverwalk provides easy access to winter birding along the Mississippi. Look for ducks, mergansers, gulls, pelicans, and eagles where the river remains open. The path is flat and ideal for short winter walks.

Elevated river overlooks and turnout areas allow visitors to scan large sections of the Mississippi River and surrounding wetlands. These spots are excellent for spotting eagles, hawks, swans, and large flocks of waterfowl without leaving your vehicle for long periods. There are several scenic turnouts on the Great River Road between Nauvoo and Hamilton.

Wooded sections of the park and nearby trails are quieter in winter and good for spotting woodpeckers, owls, and winter songbirds. Early morning or late afternoon visits can be especially productive. Hike the Health & Wellness Trail, or explore the trail around Lake Horton.

Neighborhoods and gardens around Nauvoo often attract winter birds. Watching feeders from a distance can reveal cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches, finches, and juncos, making birding accessible even on the coldest days.

Dress in warm layers and bring hand warmers.

Binoculars are especially helpful in winter when birds gather in open areas.

Early morning and mid-afternoon are often the most active times.

Move slowly and listen—winter birding rewards patience.

Winter birding in Nauvoo offers a peaceful, dramatic way to experience the Mississippi River and its wildlife. From majestic bald eagles to flocks of wintering ducks and quiet woodland birds, the season reveals a side of Nauvoo that is both wild and unforgettable.