Wetland birding habitat

Almond Marsh Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
WetlandForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Almond Marsh Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Northern Shoveler among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

4/15/2026Walmart Retention Ponds, Johnsburg2 observed

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

4/15/2026The Hollows Conservation Area1 observed

Long-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus scolopaceus

4/15/2026Sports Club Dr. Fluddles1 observed

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

4/15/2026Three Oaks Recreation Area2 observed

Yellow-headed Blackbird

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

4/15/2026Alleghany Park1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

4/14/2026251st Ave./Wilmot Rd. Pond2 observed

Eurasian Wigeon

Mareca penelope

4/14/2026Moraine Hills State Park1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

4/14/2026Chain-o-Lakes State Park2 observed

Least Sandpiper

Calidris minutilla

4/14/2026Sports Club Dr. Fluddles4 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

4/14/2026The Grove, Glenview1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

54/14/2026

Blue-winged Teal

24/14/2026

Northern Shoveler

24/14/2026

Gadwall

34/14/2026

American Wigeon

24/14/2026

Mallard

34/14/2026

Lesser Scaup

264/14/2026

Bufflehead

504/14/2026

Mourning Dove

24/14/2026

American Coot

64/14/2026

Sandhill Crane

14/14/2026

Ring-billed Gull

64/14/2026

Horned Grebe

14/14/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

274/14/2026

Great Egret

14/14/2026

Northern Flicker

14/14/2026

Tree Swallow

254/14/2026

American Robin

14/14/2026

Swamp Sparrow

14/14/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

124/14/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Almond Marsh Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Almond Marsh Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Almond Marsh Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Almond Marsh Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Northern Shoveler, Mallard, Green-winged Teal. The area supports wetland, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Almond Marsh Forest Preserve?
Birding at Almond Marsh Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Almond Marsh Forest Preserve?
Almond Marsh Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.