The Magic Hedge at Montrose Point with Lake Michigan in background

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Urban ParkCoastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

May

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

6:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily

About This Location

Montrose Point juts into Lake Michigan on Chicago's North Side, creating a natural migrant trap known locally as the Magic Hedge. Over 300 species have been recorded at this small urban hotspot, making it Chicago's best birding location.

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

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

4/18/2026West Ridge Nature Park2 observed

Nashville Warbler

Leiothlypis ruficapilla

4/18/2026Lincoln Park--Jarvis Bird Sanctuary1 observed

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

4/18/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park1 observed

Ovenbird

Seiurus aurocapilla

4/18/2026Cape Judd (Home/Rogers Park)1 observed

Baltimore Oriole

Icterus galbula

4/18/2026RF backyard -E of GAR Wds1 observed

Brewer's Blackbird

Euphagus cyanocephalus

4/18/2026Lincoln Park--North Pond1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

4/18/2026G.A.R. Woods1 observed

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

4/18/2026Mount Auburn Cemetery1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Black-capped Chickadee

14/18/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

34/18/2026

American Robin

4/18/2026

House Sparrow

4/18/2026

Chipping Sparrow

14/18/2026

White-throated Sparrow

14/18/2026

Eastern Towhee

14/18/2026

Northern Cardinal

24/18/2026

Canada Goose

24/18/2026

Mallard

24/18/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

64/18/2026

Common Grackle

104/18/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

14/18/2026

Mourning Dove

24/18/2026

Killdeer

24/18/2026

Ring-billed Gull

484/18/2026

American Herring Gull

14/18/2026

Caspian Tern

14/18/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

1514/18/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/18/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bird the Magic Hedge area first thing in the morning

  2. 2

    Check the beach and fishing pier for waterbirds and shorebirds

  3. 3

    Visit during spring migration (April-May) for the greatest species diversity

  4. 4

    Fall migration (September-October) brings waves of southbound warblers and raptors

  5. 5

    Arrive at dawn for peak bird activity, especially during migration seasons

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary for birding?
The best months to visit Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary for birding are May. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary?
Notable species at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary include Connecticut Warbler, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Common Nighthawk, Nelson's Sparrow, Whimbrel, American Wigeon, Greater Scaup, Red-breasted Merganser, Double-crested Cormorant, Red-winged Blackbird. The area supports urban park, coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary?
Birding at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary?
There is no entrance fee at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary. Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily.
What amenities are available at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary?
Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.