Forest birding habitat

Busey Woods, Urbana

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Busey Woods, Urbana is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 208 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Downy 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

Hudsonian Godwit

Limosa haemastica

4/16/2026500 N and Rt. 45 Fluddle1 observed

Northern Waterthrush

Parkesia noveboracensis

4/16/2026Homer Lake Forest Preserve, Homer US-IL 40.06163, -87.983661 observed

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

4/16/2026River Bend Forest Preserve1 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

4/16/2026Crystal Lake Park, Urbana15 observed

Palm Warbler

Setophaga palmarum

4/15/2026Weaver Park, Urbana1 observed

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

4/15/2026Moorman Swine Research Unit, Champaign1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/16/2026

Mallard

54/16/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/16/2026

Broad-winged Hawk

14/16/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

14/16/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

24/16/2026

Downy Woodpecker

24/16/2026

Northern Flicker

14/16/2026

Blue Jay

14/16/2026

American Crow

14/16/2026

Tufted Titmouse

24/16/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

24/16/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

34/16/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

54/16/2026

Winter Wren

14/16/2026

European Starling

94/16/2026

Brown Thrasher

14/16/2026

Eastern Bluebird

24/16/2026

Hermit Thrush

14/16/2026

American Robin

104/16/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  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 Busey Woods, Urbana for birding?
The best months to visit Busey Woods, Urbana for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Busey Woods, Urbana?
Notable species at Busey Woods, Urbana include Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Busey Woods, Urbana?
Birding at Busey Woods, Urbana is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Busey Woods, Urbana?
Busey Woods, Urbana offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.