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

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta canadensis

7/20/2026Northbrook House New1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

7/20/2026Home2 observed

Hudsonian Whimbrel

Numenius hudsonicus

7/20/2026Illinois Beach SP (South Unit)--Nature Center Trails and Dead River1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

7/20/2026Home-ish1 observed

Common Loon

Gavia immer

7/20/2026Illinois Beach SP (South Unit)--general1 observed

Tennessee Warbler

Leiothlypis peregrina

7/20/2026Illinois Beach SP (North Unit)--Sand Pond and Beach Access Trails1 observed

Common Merganser

Mergus merganser

7/20/2026Illinois Beach SP (North Unit)--Sand Pond and Beach Access Trails1 observed

Bell's Vireo

Vireo bellii

7/20/2026Illinois Beach SP (North Unit)--general1 observed

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Corthylio calendula

7/19/2026Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve1 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle)

Setophaga coronata

7/19/2026Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve1 observed

Northern Harrier

Circus hudsonius

7/19/2026Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve1 observed

Broad-winged Hawk

Buteo platypterus

7/19/2026Bur Oak Residence Lake Forest2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

47/10/2026

Gadwall

17/10/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

17/10/2026

Green Heron

17/10/2026

Great Egret

27/10/2026

Great Blue Heron

37/10/2026

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.