Grassland birding habitat

Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

6/1/2026The Schoolhouse2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mississippi Kite

15/29/2026

White-eyed Vireo

15/29/2026

Chipping Sparrow

15/29/2026

Northern Parula

15/29/2026

Indigo Bunting

15/29/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/28/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/28/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

25/28/2026

American Goldfinch

15/28/2026

Yellow-throated Warbler

15/28/2026

Summer Tanager

15/28/2026

Chimney Swift

55/28/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

45/28/2026

Black Vulture

25/28/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

15/28/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/28/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

25/28/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

25/28/2026

Fish Crow

15/28/2026

Tufted Titmouse

35/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road for birding?
The best months to visit Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road?
Notable species at Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road include Eastern Meadowlark, Dickcissel, Grasshopper Sparrow, Northern Harrier, Bobolink. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road?
Birding at Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road?
Oakwood Bottoms - Big Muddy Levee Road offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.