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

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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

Dickcissel

Spiza americana

4/12/2026Franklin Grove Yard1 observed

Palm Warbler

Setophaga palmarum

4/10/2026Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve1 observed

Louisiana Waterthrush

Parkesia motacilla

4/4/2026Franklin Creek State Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

154/14/2026

Wood Duck

24/14/2026

Blue-winged Teal

64/14/2026

Mallard

24/14/2026

Wild Turkey

84/14/2026

Mourning Dove

24/14/2026

Turkey Vulture

34/14/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

14/14/2026

Downy Woodpecker

24/14/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

14/14/2026

Northern Flicker

14/14/2026

Eastern Phoebe

14/14/2026

Blue Jay

54/14/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

14/14/2026

Tree Swallow

34/14/2026

Purple Martin

124/14/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

24/14/2026

Northern House Wren

14/14/2026

European Starling

14/14/2026

American Robin

34/14/2026

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 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.