Lake birding habitat

Rend Lake - South

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rend Lake - South is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 212 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Gadwall, Northern Pintail, and Lesser Scaup 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 House Wren

Troglodytes aedon

4/12/2026401 N 27th St, Mount Vernon US-IL (38.3197,-88.9254)1 observed

Eastern Warbling Vireo

Vireo gilvus

4/11/2026Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area, Ina US-IL 38.13969, -88.917411 observed

Dunlin

Calidris alpina

4/8/2026Rend Lake--Northern Section (Jefferson Co.)2 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

4/4/2026Bakerville Rd1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

14/15/2026

Bonaparte's Gull

24/15/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

44/15/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/15/2026

Turkey Vulture

14/15/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

14/15/2026

White-eyed Vireo

14/15/2026

American Crow

44/15/2026

Carolina Chickadee

14/15/2026

Tufted Titmouse

24/15/2026

Tree Swallow

84/15/2026

Purple Martin

44/15/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

34/15/2026

Carolina Wren

14/15/2026

American Goldfinch

24/15/2026

Chipping Sparrow

24/15/2026

Field Sparrow

14/15/2026

Eastern Towhee

14/15/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

24/15/2026

Prothonotary Warbler

14/15/2026

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 - South for birding?
The best months to visit Rend Lake - South for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rend Lake - South?
Notable species at Rend Lake - South include Gadwall, Northern Pintail, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rend Lake - South?
Birding at Rend Lake - South is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rend Lake - South?
Rend Lake - South offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.