Grassland birding habitat

Fort Massac State Park

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Fort Massac State Park is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 200 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Bald Eagle, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Northern Flicker 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

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

5/31/2026Temple Hill, Illinois, US (37.289, -88.604)3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

15/31/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/31/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/31/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

25/31/2026

Barred Owl

15/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

35/31/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

35/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

25/31/2026

White-eyed Vireo

15/31/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

25/31/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/31/2026

Carolina Chickadee

25/31/2026

Tufted Titmouse

35/31/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

35/31/2026

Carolina Wren

25/31/2026

Brown Thrasher

15/31/2026

Eastern Towhee

15/31/2026

Baltimore Oriole

15/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Fort Massac State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Fort Massac State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Fort Massac State Park?
Notable species at Fort Massac State Park include Bald Eagle, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, American Kestrel, Carolina Chickadee. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Fort Massac State Park?
Birding at Fort Massac State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Fort Massac State Park?
Fort Massac State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.