Lake birding habitat

Rend Lake - Ward Branch

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rend Lake - Ward Branch is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 220 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

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

Dendrocygna autumnalis

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

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

7/11/2026401 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

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

Mourning Dove

37/10/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/10/2026

American Crow

17/10/2026

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