Coastal birding habitat

Montrose Harbor

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Montrose Harbor is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 279 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts American Wigeon, Mallard, and Greater Scaup 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 Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

6/1/2026Bench on Niles and Oakton (in front of CC)1 observed

Lincoln's Sparrow

Melospiza lincolnii

6/1/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

American Pipit

Anthus rubescens

6/1/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

6/1/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

5/31/2026River Park2 observed

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

5/31/2026Lincoln Park--Diversey Harbor1 observed

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

5/31/2026Willow Hill Golf Course, Northbrook3 observed

Red Knot

Calidris canutus

5/31/2026Montrose Dunes, Lincoln Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

375/31/2026

Ring-billed Gull

85/31/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

15/31/2026

Purple Martin

405/31/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

45/31/2026

European Starling

85/31/2026

House Sparrow

65/31/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

35/31/2026

Common Grackle

35/31/2026

Mallard

55/31/2026

Chimney Swift

35/31/2026

Caspian Tern

15/31/2026

Common Tern

15/31/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/31/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

35/31/2026

Tree Swallow

15/31/2026

Barn Swallow

55/31/2026

Northern House Wren

15/31/2026

American Robin

65/31/2026

Cedar Waxwing

65/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  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 Montrose Harbor for birding?
The best months to visit Montrose Harbor for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Montrose Harbor?
Notable species at Montrose Harbor include American Wigeon, Mallard, Greater Scaup, Common Goldeneye, Red-breasted Merganser. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Montrose Harbor?
Birding at Montrose Harbor is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Montrose Harbor?
Montrose Harbor offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.