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

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

4/18/2026Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, Lincoln Park

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

Baltimore Oriole

Icterus galbula

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

Ovenbird

Seiurus aurocapilla

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

Brewer's Blackbird

Euphagus cyanocephalus

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

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-tailed Hawk

14/18/2026

Northern Flicker

34/18/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

24/18/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

24/18/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

24/18/2026

Brown Thrasher

14/18/2026

Eastern Towhee

24/18/2026

Common Grackle

14/18/2026

Northern Cardinal

34/18/2026

Canada Goose

4/18/2026

Mallard

4/18/2026

Virginia Rail

4/18/2026

Ring-billed Gull

4/18/2026

Caspian Tern

4/18/2026

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

4/18/2026

Downy Woodpecker

4/18/2026

American Crow

4/18/2026

Purple Martin

4/18/2026

Brown Creeper

4/18/2026

European Starling

4/18/2026

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.