Lake birding habitat

Rend Lake - Northern Section

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rend Lake - Northern Section is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This lake 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

Pine Warbler

Setophaga pinus

5/29/2026Rend Lake--South Marcum Public Use Area and Campground1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

5/22/2026401 N 27th St, Mount Vernon US-IL (38.3197,-88.9254)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Osprey

15/30/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/30/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

25/30/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

25/30/2026

American Crow

35/30/2026

Carolina Chickadee

25/30/2026

Tufted Titmouse

15/30/2026

Northern Mockingbird

25/30/2026

Eastern Bluebird

25/30/2026

Chipping Sparrow

15/30/2026

Eastern Towhee

15/30/2026

Common Grackle

35/30/2026

Northern Cardinal

25/30/2026

Indigo Bunting

15/30/2026

Eastern Kingbird

25/29/2026

Wood Duck

15/25/2026

Rock Pigeon

25/25/2026

Orchard Oriole

15/25/2026

Killdeer

15/25/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Rend Lake - Northern Section for birding?
The best months to visit Rend Lake - Northern Section for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rend Lake - Northern Section?
Notable species at Rend Lake - Northern Section include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rend Lake - Northern Section?
Birding at Rend Lake - Northern Section is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rend Lake - Northern Section?
Rend Lake - Northern Section offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.