A large tree in the middle of a forest

LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, sunrise to sunset

About This Location

LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Red-bellied 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

Wood Thrush

Hylocichla mustelina

4/19/2026Jackson Park1 observed

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

4/19/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

4/19/2026Lincoln Park--South Pond4 observed

Brewer's Blackbird

Euphagus cyanocephalus

4/19/2026Marquette Park1 observed

Prairie Warbler

Setophaga discolor

4/19/2026LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/19/2026

Mallard

64/19/2026

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

34/19/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

24/19/2026

Downy Woodpecker

24/19/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

34/19/2026

American Robin

104/19/2026

Pine Warbler

14/19/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

74/19/2026

Northern Cardinal

14/19/2026

Mourning Dove

14/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

64/19/2026

Common Grackle

44/19/2026

Orange-crowned Warbler

14/19/2026

Wood Duck

24/19/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/19/2026

Northern Flicker

14/19/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

34/19/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

14/19/2026

Hermit Thrush

24/19/2026

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.

  4. 4

    Check eBird hotspot data before visiting to see recent sightings and what species are being reported.

  5. 5

    Bring quality optics — a good pair of binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) makes all the difference in species identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve?
Notable species at LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Mallard, Red-bellied Woodpecker, House Finch, Northern Cardinal, Mourning Dove, European Starling, Red-winged Blackbird, Rock Pigeon, Killdeer, House Sparrow, Merlin. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve?
Birding at LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve?
There is no entrance fee at LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve. Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
What amenities are available at LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve?
LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.