Mountain birding habitat

Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Mountain
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This mountain habitat attracts Rough-legged Hawk 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

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

5/28/2026Matthiessen SP--Dells Area1 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

5/26/2026home1 observed

Prairie Warbler

Setophaga discolor

5/22/2026Miller-Anderson Nature Preserve (Bureau Co.)1 observed

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Tyrannus forficatus

5/20/2026Outside Mcnabb IL1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/19/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

25/19/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/19/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

45/19/2026

Barn Swallow

15/19/2026

Northern House Wren

15/19/2026

Eastern Bluebird

15/19/2026

Song Sparrow

25/19/2026

Baltimore Oriole

15/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

15/19/2026

Northern Waterthrush

15/19/2026

Common Yellowthroat

45/19/2026

Northern Parula

15/19/2026

Dickcissel

35/19/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring layers as mountain weather changes rapidly at elevation.

  2. 2

    Check exposed ridges and thermals for soaring raptors and swifts.

  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 Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail for birding?
The best months to visit Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail?
Notable species at Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail include Mountain Bluebird, Clark's Nutcracker, White-tailed Ptarmigan, Townsend's Solitaire, Rosy-Finch. The area supports mountain habitats.
How difficult is birding at Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail?
Birding at Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail?
Dixon Waterfowl Refuge - Marquis Oak Ridge Trail offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.