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

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

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

6/1/2026The Schoolhouse2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

85/31/2026

Mourning Dove

25/31/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/31/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

15/31/2026

Little Blue Heron

25/31/2026

Great Egret

65/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

35/31/2026

Black Vulture

25/31/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/31/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

35/31/2026

Eastern Phoebe

15/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/31/2026

White-eyed Vireo

45/31/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

35/31/2026

Blue Jay

25/31/2026

American Crow

15/31/2026

Carolina Chickadee

25/31/2026

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.