Grassland birding habitat

LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 217 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, and Downy 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

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

7/14/2026Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mississippi Kite

47/20/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/20/2026

White-eyed Vireo

17/20/2026

Tufted Titmouse

17/20/2026

Indigo Bunting

37/20/2026

Turkey Vulture

47/20/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

17/20/2026

Blue Jay

17/20/2026

American Crow

27/20/2026

Carolina Wren

17/20/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/20/2026

Mourning Dove

17/18/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

17/18/2026

Snowy Egret

27/18/2026

Great Egret

47/18/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/18/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/18/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/18/2026

Bell's Vireo

27/18/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/18/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area for birding?
The best months to visit LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area?
Notable species at LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area include Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area?
Birding at LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area?
LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.