Wetland birding habitat

Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 264 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall 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

Palm Warbler (Western)

Setophaga palmarum

4/11/2026Morgan Cass County Line Rd, Meredosia US-IL (39.8759,-90.5417)1 observed

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

4/11/2026Big Lake2 observed

Fish Crow

Corvus ossifragus

4/11/2026Big Lake2 observed

Northern House Wren

Troglodytes aedon

4/11/2026Big Lake2 observed

Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum

4/11/2026Old Naples Ln, Meredosia US-IL 39.79318, -90.574056 observed

Cliff Swallow

Petrochelidon pyrrhonota

4/11/2026Curry Lake25 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eastern Bluebird

14/13/2026

Northern Mockingbird

14/9/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

14/9/2026

Brown Thrasher

14/9/2026

Northern Bobwhite

14/9/2026

Field Sparrow

14/9/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, Northern Pintail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge?
Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.