Lake birding habitat

Rend Lake Spillway

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rend Lake Spillway is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 210 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Rock Pigeon, and Ring-billed Gull 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

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

Dendrocygna autumnalis

7/15/2026stakeout Black-bellied Whistling Ducks (Waltonville, 2025-26)11 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Cliff Swallow

27/15/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/13/2026

Osprey

17/13/2026

Wild Turkey

17/13/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/13/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/13/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/13/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/13/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/13/2026

Carolina Chickadee

17/13/2026

Tufted Titmouse

17/13/2026

Carolina Wren

17/13/2026

American Robin

17/13/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/13/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/13/2026

Indigo Bunting

27/13/2026

Great Egret

17/13/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/6/2026

American Crow

17/6/2026

European Starling

27/6/2026

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 Spillway for birding?
The best months to visit Rend Lake Spillway for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rend Lake Spillway?
Notable species at Rend Lake Spillway include Canada Goose, Rock Pigeon, Ring-billed Gull, American Herring Gull, American White Pelican. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rend Lake Spillway?
Birding at Rend Lake Spillway is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rend Lake Spillway?
Rend Lake Spillway offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.