Fermilab
Illinois · Midwest
Moderate
April-May, September-October
Free (government ID required for site access)
Open daily, 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM (hours vary seasonally)
About This Location
Fermilab is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 292 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and American Wigeon 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
Hudsonian Godwit
Limosa haemastica
Wilson's Phalarope
Phalaropus tricolor
Northern Flicker (Red-shafted)
Colaptes auratus
Nashville Warbler
Leiothlypis ruficapilla
Northern Yellow Warbler
Setophaga aestiva
Loggerhead Shrike
Lanius ludovicianus
Swainson's Thrush
Catharus ustulatus
Black-and-white Warbler
Mniotilta varia
Common Yellowthroat
Geothlypis trichas
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Canada Goose
Blue-winged Teal
Mallard
American Coot
Double-crested Cormorant
Cooper's Hawk
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin
Song Sparrow
Red-winged Blackbird
Common Grackle
Palm Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Northern Shoveler
Gadwall
Ring-necked Duck
Lesser Scaup
Hooded Merganser
Ruddy Duck
Rock Pigeon
Birding Tips
- 1
Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.
- 2
Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.
- 3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.
- 4
Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.
- 5
Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
- Morton Arboretum
- Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
- Greene Valley Forest Preserve
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Illinois Birding Guide
Complete guide to birding in Illinois →