Wetland birding habitat

Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, and Red-headed Woodpecker among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Whooping Crane

Grus americana

5/29/2026Nachusa Grasslands (Lee Co.)1 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle)

Setophaga coronata

5/26/2026Gremel Wildlife Nature Preserve/Green Wing Environmental Laboratory1 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

5/25/2026Lake Kakusha2 observed

American Bittern

Botaurus lentiginosus

5/25/2026Gremel Wildlife Nature Preserve/Green Wing Environmental Laboratory2 observed

Solitary Sandpiper

Tringa solitaria

5/25/2026Gremel Wildlife Nature Preserve/Green Wing Environmental Laboratory1 observed

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Corthylio calendula

5/24/2026Page Park1 observed

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

5/19/2026Chicago Rd. Fluddle2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

15/31/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/31/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Downy Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Blue Jay

25/31/2026

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

15/31/2026

House Finch

25/31/2026

Field Sparrow

15/31/2026

Eastern Towhee

25/31/2026

Baltimore Oriole

45/31/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

55/31/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

35/31/2026

Common Grackle

95/31/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/31/2026

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

15/31/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/31/2026

Sandhill Crane

25/31/2026

Turkey Vulture

35/31/2026

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 Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve?
Notable species at Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve include Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve?
Birding at Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve?
Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.