Wetland birding habitat

Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
WetlandForestLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 267 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, American Wigeon, and Mallard 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

Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

7/15/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)3 observed

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

7/12/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)3 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

Stilt Sandpiper

Calidris himantopus

7/10/2026Millhurst Rd Fluddle3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Flicker

17/11/2026

Willow Flycatcher

27/11/2026

American Goldfinch

57/11/2026

Song Sparrow

47/11/2026

Yellow-breasted Chat

17/11/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

87/11/2026

Common Yellowthroat

27/11/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/11/2026

Canada Goose

7/4/2026

Mallard

7/4/2026

Rock Pigeon

7/4/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

7/4/2026

Green Heron

7/4/2026

Great Blue Heron

7/4/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

7/4/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

47/4/2026

Blue Jay

7/4/2026

Tree Swallow

7/4/2026

Barn Swallow

7/4/2026

Northern House Wren

7/4/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, American Wigeon, Mallard, Common Merganser, Ring-necked Pheasant. The area supports wetland, forest, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve?
Birding at Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve?
Nelson Lake Marsh Nature Preserve/Dick Young Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.