Forest birding habitat

Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and Downy Woodpecker 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

Common Yellowthroat

Geothlypis trichas

4/15/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

4/15/2026Washington Park1 observed

Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

4/15/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

4/15/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park5 observed

Lincoln's Sparrow

Melospiza lincolnii

4/15/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

4/15/2026G.A.R. Woods1 observed

Chimney Swift

Chaetura pelagica

4/15/2026Loyola University area1 observed

Long-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus scolopaceus

4/14/2026Montrose Dunes, Lincoln Park1 observed

Short-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus griseus

4/14/2026Montrose Dunes, Lincoln Park1 observed

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

4/14/2026Lincoln Park--North Ave. Beach1 observed

Green Heron

Butorides virescens

4/14/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

54/10/2026

Mallard

104/10/2026

Mourning Dove

24/10/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

24/10/2026

Great Blue Heron

24/10/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

54/10/2026

Northern Flicker

34/10/2026

Eastern Phoebe

14/10/2026

Blue Jay

54/10/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

24/10/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

14/10/2026

Brown Creeper

34/10/2026

European Starling

74/10/2026

American Robin

324/10/2026

American Goldfinch

24/10/2026

Chipping Sparrow

24/10/2026

American Tree Sparrow

44/10/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

174/10/2026

Song Sparrow

84/10/2026

Swamp Sparrow

24/10/2026

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 Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve include Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, White-breasted Nuthatch. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve?
Birding at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve?
Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.