Mermet Lake

Illinois · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Mermet Lake is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 263 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Wilson's Snipe, Canada Goose, 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

Wilson's Snipe Canada Goose Gadwall Mallard Green-winged Teal

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Sora

Porzana carolina

7/10/2026West KY WMA--portion south of KY 3581 observed

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

Dendrocygna autumnalis

7/8/202611150 Ogden Landing Rd, Kevil US-KY (37.1448,-88.8360)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

27/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/12/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/12/2026

Blue Jay

17/12/2026

American Crow

17/12/2026

Tufted Titmouse

17/12/2026

Carolina Wren

17/12/2026

Wood Thrush

17/12/2026

Chipping Sparrow

17/12/2026

Field Sparrow

17/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/12/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/12/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/12/2026

Blue Grosbeak

17/12/2026

Indigo Bunting

17/12/2026

Birding Tips

1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Illinois

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Chicago's top birding spot where the Magic Hedge traps migrating songbirds.

Jackson Park / Wooded Island

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Illinois Beach State Park

Illinois' last natural Lake Michigan shore with 300+ species, shorebird migration, and grassland birds.

Illinois Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Illinois →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Mermet Lake for birding?▼

The best months to visit Mermet Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.

What birds can I see at Mermet Lake?▼

Notable species at Mermet Lake include Wilson's Snipe, Canada Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, Green-winged Teal. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at Mermet Lake?▼

Birding at Mermet Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Mermet Lake?▼

Mermet Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.