Wetland birding habitat

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Wolfcreek Causeway

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Wolfcreek Causeway is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Lesser Scaup, and Bufflehead 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

15/30/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

25/30/2026

Great Blue Heron

45/30/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

25/30/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/30/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/30/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/30/2026

Cedar Waxwing

25/30/2026

American Goldfinch

25/30/2026

Chipping Sparrow

45/30/2026

Orchard Oriole

15/30/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

35/30/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

25/30/2026

Prothonotary Warbler

15/30/2026

Yellow-throated Warbler

15/30/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/30/2026

Indigo Bunting

45/30/2026

Northern Bobwhite

5/27/2026

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 - Wolfcreek Causeway for birding?
The best months to visit Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Wolfcreek Causeway 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 - Wolfcreek Causeway?
Notable species at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Wolfcreek Causeway include Canada Goose, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, Mourning Dove. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Wolfcreek Causeway?
Birding at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Wolfcreek Causeway is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Wolfcreek Causeway?
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Wolfcreek Causeway offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.