Miller Meadows Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Miller Meadows Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Mourning Dove 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

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

3/5/2026Loyola Park1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/5/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park4 observed

Common Raven

Corvus corax

3/4/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

Horned Grebe

Podiceps auritus

3/4/2026Bensenville Ditch1 observed

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

3/4/2026Busse Woods, Rolling Meadows US-IL 42.04751, -88.025633 observed

Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon)

Junco hyemalis

3/4/20261207 Dobson1 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

3/3/2026Lake Calumet area--Lake Calumet/Harborside Golf Course5 observed

Tufted Titmouse

Baeolophus bicolor

3/3/2026Lincoln Park--South Pond1 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

3/3/2026Northerly Island13 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

83/5/2026

Mallard

53/5/2026

Mourning Dove

33/5/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/5/2026

Downy Woodpecker

23/5/2026

Northern Flicker

13/5/2026

American Crow

13/5/2026

European Starling

163/5/2026

American Robin

263/5/2026

Cedar Waxwing

13/5/2026

House Finch

13/5/2026

American Goldfinch

13/5/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

13/5/2026

Song Sparrow

23/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

243/5/2026

Northern Cardinal

83/5/2026

American Kestrel

12/27/2026

Bald Eagle

12/20/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

12/20/2026

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 Miller Meadows Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Miller Meadows Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Miller Meadows Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Miller Meadows Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Miller Meadows Forest Preserve?
Birding at Miller Meadows Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Miller Meadows Forest Preserve?
Miller Meadows Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.