Which birds migrate along the Mississippi Flyway?

The Mississippi Flyway serves as a vital aerial corridor for millions of birds traveling between their northern nesting grounds in Canada and wintering areas in the southern United States and Latin America.1

The flyway is primarily utilized by waterfowl, with an estimated eight million ducks, geese, and swans wintering in the lower portion of the route. Typical species include:1

• Geese: Canada geese and lesser snow geese.1
• Ducks: Large numbers of mallard, teal, black ducks, widgeon, pintail, and ring-necked ducks.1
• Other water birds: Coots.1

Additionally, other migratory species, such as the American golden plover, traverse the Mississippi Valley during their return flights from wintering grounds in South America. The abundance of natural cover and food sources along the river’s swamps and wetlands makes this route an essential habitat for these migrating populations.21