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

Loading map...

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

Eastern Screech-Owl

Megascops asio

8/22/2026Lincoln Park--Jarvis Bird Sanctuary2 observed

Wild Turkey

Meleagris gallopavo

8/22/2026Rainbow Beach1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

8/22/2026Wood Dale Reservoir1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

8/22/2026Rainbow Beach1 observed

Broad-winged Hawk

Buteo platypterus

8/22/2026Jackson Park--Wooded Island/Bobolink Meadow area1 observed

Bell's Vireo

Vireo bellii

8/22/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

128/22/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

38/22/2026

Great Blue Heron

38/22/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

18/22/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

28/22/2026

American Robin

38/22/2026

American Goldfinch

28/22/2026

American Redstart

18/22/2026

Magnolia Warbler

18/22/2026

Northern Cardinal

58/22/2026

Common Nighthawk

98/20/2026

Chimney Swift

58/20/2026

Eastern Kingbird

18/20/2026

Blue Jay

28/20/2026

Cedar Waxwing

118/20/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

18/20/2026

Northern Flicker

98/20/2026

American Kestrel

18/20/2026

Olive-sided Flycatcher

18/20/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

18/20/2026

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.