Grassland birding habitat

Burning Star Mine

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Burning Star Mine is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Mourning Dove, and Ring-billed Gull 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/29/2026

Tufted Titmouse

35/29/2026

Field Sparrow

15/29/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

15/29/2026

Summer Tanager

15/29/2026

Indigo Bunting

25/29/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

5/29/2026

Willow Flycatcher

5/29/2026

Eastern Kingbird

5/29/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

5/29/2026

Eastern Towhee

5/29/2026

Prothonotary Warbler

5/29/2026

Common Yellowthroat

5/29/2026

Scarlet Tanager

5/29/2026

Northern Cardinal

5/29/2026

Blue Grosbeak

5/29/2026

Wood Duck

5/19/2026

Mallard

5/19/2026

Northern Bobwhite

5/19/2026

Mourning Dove

5/19/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Burning Star Mine for birding?
The best months to visit Burning Star Mine for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Burning Star Mine?
Notable species at Burning Star Mine include Snow Goose, Mourning Dove, Ring-billed Gull, Turkey Vulture, Northern Harrier. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Burning Star Mine?
Birding at Burning Star Mine is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Burning Star Mine?
Burning Star Mine offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.