Coastal birding habitat

Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31 is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 222 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Mallard 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

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

6/2/2026Old Green Valley Park, Moline1 observed

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

5/30/2026Lock and Dam 14 (Illinois)1 observed

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

5/30/2026Lock and Dam 14 (Illinois)1 observed

Brown Creeper

Certhia americana

5/27/2026Willowbrook Farm (Private)1 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

5/24/2026Ben Butterworth Parkway, Moline1 observed

Common Loon

Gavia immer

5/23/2026Ben Butterworth Parkway, Moline1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

26/2/2026

Rock Pigeon

26/2/2026

Mourning Dove

16/2/2026

Turkey Vulture

36/2/2026

Bald Eagle

26/2/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

16/2/2026

Tree Swallow

16/2/2026

Purple Martin

16/2/2026

Northern House Wren

16/2/2026

European Starling

36/2/2026

Brown Thrasher

16/2/2026

American Robin

36/2/2026

House Sparrow

36/2/2026

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

26/2/2026

Song Sparrow

16/2/2026

Mallard

26/2/2026

Chimney Swift

26/2/2026

Killdeer

16/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

56/2/2026

Great Blue Heron

66/2/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  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 Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31 for birding?
The best months to visit Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31 for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31?
Notable species at Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31 include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Mallard, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31?
Birding at Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31 is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31?
Hennepin Canal - Big Island and Lock 31 offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.