Forest birding habitat

Mallard Lake Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
ForestLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Mallard Lake Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This forest and lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Gadwall, and Mallard 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

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

4/15/2026G.A.R. Woods1 observed

Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

4/14/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

Green Heron

Butorides virescens

4/14/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

Palm Warbler

Setophaga palmarum

4/14/2026Morton Arboretum--West Side1 observed

Yellow-throated Warbler

Setophaga dominica

4/14/2026Morton Arboretum--East Side1 observed

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

4/14/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

4/14/2026The Grove, Glenview1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

14/12/2026

Mallard

24/12/2026

American Coot

14/12/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

34/12/2026

Brown Creeper

14/12/2026

American Robin

24/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

124/12/2026

Common Grackle

34/12/2026

Blue-winged Teal

74/12/2026

Killdeer

4/12/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

4/12/2026

Sharp-shinned Hawk

14/12/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/12/2026

Northern Flicker

14/12/2026

Eastern Phoebe

24/12/2026

Blue Jay

24/12/2026

Tree Swallow

4/12/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

24/12/2026

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Mallard Lake Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Mallard Lake Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck. The area supports forest, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve?
Birding at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve?
Mallard Lake Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.