Wetland birding habitat

Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
WetlandLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 239 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and lake habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

5/28/202610981 Conservation Road, Baldwin, Illinois, US (38.23, -89.878)13 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

65/19/2026

Northern Bobwhite

15/19/2026

Wild Turkey

25/19/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

15/19/2026

Mourning Dove

95/19/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/19/2026

Black-billed Cuckoo

15/19/2026

Common Nighthawk

15/19/2026

Chimney Swift

25/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/19/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

25/19/2026

Barred Owl

15/19/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

25/19/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

55/19/2026

Downy Woodpecker

65/19/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

45/19/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

15/19/2026

Northern Flicker

25/19/2026

American Kestrel

15/19/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

25/19/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area for birding?
The best months to visit Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area?
Notable species at Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area?
Birding at Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area?
Kidd Lake Marsh State Natural Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.