Forest birding habitat

Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve)

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve) is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 237 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Mourning Dove 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

American Avocet

Recurvirostra americana

4/15/2026Bangs Lake--North1 observed

Ovenbird

Seiurus aurocapilla

4/15/2026West Ridge Nature Park1 observed

Henslow's Sparrow

Centronyx henslowii

4/15/2026Skokie Lagoons Forest Preserve--Willow Rd.1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

4/15/2026Skokie Lagoons Forest Preserve--Willow Rd.1 observed

Marsh Wren

Cistothorus palustris

4/15/2026Ryerson Conservation Area1 observed

Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

4/15/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)2 observed

Chimney Swift

Chaetura pelagica

4/15/2026Thatcher Woods Forest Preserve1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mute Swan

24/15/2026

Mallard

24/15/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

144/15/2026

Great Egret

54/15/2026

Osprey

14/15/2026

European Starling

84/15/2026

American Robin

14/15/2026

Purple Finch

14/15/2026

Song Sparrow

14/15/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

34/15/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

14/15/2026

Canada Goose

24/15/2026

American White Pelican

104/15/2026

Blue Jay

14/15/2026

Tree Swallow

14/15/2026

Chipping Sparrow

14/15/2026

Field Sparrow

14/15/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

14/15/2026

Common Grackle

14/15/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

14/15/2026

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 Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve) for birding?
The best months to visit Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve)?
Notable species at Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve) include Canada Goose, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Red-tailed Hawk, Blue Jay. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve)?
Birding at Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve)?
Busse Woods (Ned Brown Forest Preserve) offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.