Arcola Marsh

Illinois · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Wetland

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Arcola Marsh is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Great Blue Heron Red-winged Blackbird Mallard Green Heron Virginia Rail

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

7/18/2026Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit)--Fish Hook Waterfowl Area22 observed

Osprey

Pandion haliaetus

7/16/2026Lake Charleston1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

7/16/2026Black-necked Stilts -CR 1850 East, Charleston, US-IL 39.56899, -88.129642 observed

Little Blue Heron

Egretta caerulea

7/10/2026Lake Charleston1 observed

Birding Tips

1
Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.
2
Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.
3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

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Illinois Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Illinois →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Arcola Marsh for birding?▼

The best months to visit Arcola Marsh for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.

What birds can I see at Arcola Marsh?▼

Notable species at Arcola Marsh include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.

How difficult is birding at Arcola Marsh?▼

Birding at Arcola Marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Arcola Marsh?▼

Arcola Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.