Wetland birding habitat

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 278 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Redhead 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

Mourning Dove

15/31/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/31/2026

Blue Jay

15/31/2026

Tufted Titmouse

15/31/2026

Northern Mockingbird

15/31/2026

House Sparrow

15/31/2026

Chipping Sparrow

15/31/2026

Song Sparrow

15/31/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

15/31/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

15/31/2026

Common Grackle

15/31/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/31/2026

Indigo Bunting

15/31/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

35/31/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

35/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

45/31/2026

American White Pelican

25/31/2026

Turkey Vulture

95/31/2026

Mississippi Kite

15/31/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

15/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Mallard, Redhead, Lesser Scaup, Common Goldeneye. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge?
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.