Carbondale Reservoir

Illinois · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Carbondale Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 218 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Ruddy Duck, and Killdeer among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

Notable Species

Canada Goose Ruddy Duck Killdeer Fish Crow Northern Mockingbird

Live Bird Data

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

305/27/2026

Mallard

125/27/2026

Mourning Dove

25/27/2026

Great Egret

35/27/2026

Great Blue Heron

25/27/2026

Black Vulture

65/27/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

35/27/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

15/27/2026

American Crow

15/27/2026

Fish Crow

35/27/2026

European Starling

25/27/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

15/27/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/26/2026

Chipping Sparrow

15/26/2026

Song Sparrow

15/26/2026

Common Grackle

65/26/2026

Northern Cardinal

25/26/2026

Killdeer

15/26/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/26/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/26/2026

Birding Tips

1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Illinois

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

Chicago's top birding spot where the Magic Hedge traps migrating songbirds.

Jackson Park / Wooded Island

Chicago South Side migrant trap on a historic Wooded Island with 250+ species and outstanding warbler fallouts.

Illinois Beach State Park

Illinois' last natural Lake Michigan shore with 300+ species, shorebird migration, and grassland birds.

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 Carbondale Reservoir for birding?▼

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

What birds can I see at Carbondale Reservoir?▼

Notable species at Carbondale Reservoir include Canada Goose, Ruddy Duck, Killdeer, Fish Crow, Northern Mockingbird. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at Carbondale Reservoir?▼

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

What amenities are available at Carbondale Reservoir?▼

Carbondale Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.