Forest birding habitat

Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 239 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Green-winged Teal among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Yellow-headed Blackbird

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

7/15/2026Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow)2 observed

Eastern Whip-poor-will

Antrostomus vociferus

7/11/2026Perricone's Hideaway/Valley View, St. Charles1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

7/11/2026Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve2 observed

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

7/9/2026Barrington Road Pond1 observed

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta canadensis

7/5/2026Highland Ave1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

17/18/2026

Sandhill Crane

27/18/2026

Caspian Tern

17/18/2026

Great Egret

17/18/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/18/2026

Eastern Kingbird

7/18/2026

Tree Swallow

7/18/2026

Barn Swallow

7/18/2026

Marsh Wren

27/18/2026

American Robin

7/18/2026

Savannah Sparrow

17/18/2026

Bobolink

37/18/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

17/18/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

7/18/2026

Common Yellowthroat

7/18/2026

Mallard

17/18/2026

Rock Pigeon

87/18/2026

Mourning Dove

27/18/2026

Common Gallinule

17/18/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

27/18/2026

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