Lake birding habitat

Lake Rawson

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Lake Rawson is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 230 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Mute Swan 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

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

5/28/2026Matthiessen SP--Dells Area1 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

5/26/2026home1 observed

Prairie Warbler

Setophaga discolor

5/22/2026Miller-Anderson Nature Preserve (Bureau Co.)1 observed

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Tyrannus forficatus

5/20/2026Outside Mcnabb IL1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

135/22/2026

Wood Duck

25/22/2026

Wild Turkey

15/22/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

45/22/2026

Turkey Vulture

75/22/2026

Bald Eagle

15/22/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

25/22/2026

Eastern Kingbird

25/22/2026

Blue Jay

25/22/2026

American Crow

25/22/2026

Tree Swallow

65/22/2026

Barn Swallow

25/22/2026

Cliff Swallow

95/22/2026

Northern House Wren

15/22/2026

European Starling

35/22/2026

Gray Catbird

25/22/2026

American Robin

35/22/2026

House Sparrow

25/22/2026

Song Sparrow

15/22/2026

Baltimore Oriole

35/22/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Lake Rawson for birding?
The best months to visit Lake Rawson for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Lake Rawson?
Notable species at Lake Rawson include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Common Merganser, Ruddy Duck. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lake Rawson?
Birding at Lake Rawson is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lake Rawson?
Lake Rawson offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.