Forest birding habitat

Four Lakes Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Four Lakes Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 214 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Mourning Dove 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

Marsh Wren

Cistothorus palustris

4/15/2026Roscoe Oasis1 observed

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

4/7/2026Rock Cut State Park1 observed

Ovenbird

Seiurus aurocapilla

4/6/2026Barrick Oaks Homestead Preserve1 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

4/6/2026Barrick Oaks Homestead Preserve1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

4/4/2026Rock Cut State Park--Olson Lake2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

234/6/2026

Blue-winged Teal

24/6/2026

Mourning Dove

24/6/2026

Sandhill Crane

24/6/2026

Killdeer

34/6/2026

American White Pelican

754/6/2026

Belted Kingfisher

14/6/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

14/6/2026

Downy Woodpecker

14/6/2026

Northern Flicker

24/6/2026

Eastern Phoebe

14/6/2026

Blue Jay

24/6/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

24/6/2026

Tree Swallow

234/6/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

64/6/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

24/6/2026

European Starling

74/6/2026

American Robin

254/6/2026

House Sparrow

44/6/2026

American Goldfinch

84/6/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  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 Four Lakes Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Four Lakes Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Four Lakes Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Four Lakes Forest Preserve include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Mourning Dove, Killdeer, House Sparrow. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Four Lakes Forest Preserve?
Birding at Four Lakes Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Four Lakes Forest Preserve?
Four Lakes Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.