It is hard to see much of Big Creek Lake from any one spot, so check multiple access points to find where the waterbirds are concentrated. 

Primarily water related species in spring and fall/early winter.  Depending on the varying status of the lake's Gizzard Shad population, there may be very large numbers of gulls, particularly Bonaparte's, on the lake, as well as loons and diving ducks.  Depending on the level of human activity, there may be shorebirds and a gull roost on the beach near the marina.

The state park occupies the east side of the lake.  There are a number of side roads and access points to explore.  

Saylorville Reservoir is an extremely important stopover area for migrating waterfowl, gulls, terns, American White Pelicans, shorebirds, and other waterbirds. It supports nationally important concentrations of several species as well as smaller concentrations of many other species. The adjacent uplands support a variety of woodland species, both during the nesting season and in migration.

Saylorville Reservoir is located on the Des Moines River about 4 miles north of Interstate 80/35 north of Des Moines. Land on both sides of the reservoir is owned by the Army Corps of Engineers and includes several access points on both sides of the lake. County owned Jester Park on the west shore of the northern part of the reservoir also offers good access to some important birding areas. Big Creek State Park and adjacent state wildlife areas provide important upland habitat.