Coastal birding habitat

Northerly Island

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Northerly Island is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 269 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Redhead 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

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

175/31/2026

Mallard

55/31/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/31/2026

Killdeer

25/31/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

55/31/2026

Ring-billed Gull

505/31/2026

American Herring Gull

55/31/2026

Caspian Tern

65/31/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

25/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/31/2026

Eastern Kingbird

35/31/2026

American Crow

15/31/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

85/31/2026

Barn Swallow

85/31/2026

Cliff Swallow

65/31/2026

European Starling

65/31/2026

American Robin

55/31/2026

House Sparrow

25/31/2026

American Goldfinch

55/31/2026

Savannah Sparrow

105/31/2026

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 Northerly Island for birding?
The best months to visit Northerly Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Northerly Island?
Notable species at Northerly Island include Canada Goose, Mallard, Redhead, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Northerly Island?
Birding at Northerly Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Northerly Island?
Northerly Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.