Forest birding habitat

Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Common Merganser 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

Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

7/12/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)4 observed

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

7/12/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)3 observed

Eastern Whip-poor-will

Antrostomus vociferus

7/11/2026Perricone's Hideaway/Valley View, St. Charles1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

7/11/2026Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

17/12/2026

Common Nighthawk

17/12/2026

Osprey

17/12/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

17/12/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/12/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

27/12/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/12/2026

Blue Jay

17/12/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

57/12/2026

American Robin

17/12/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/12/2026

Canada Goose

107/11/2026

Mourning Dove

27/11/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/11/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/11/2026

Great Egret

17/11/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/11/2026

Cooper's Hawk

17/11/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/11/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

17/11/2026

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