Forest birding habitat

Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands)

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
ForestGrassland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands) is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This forest and grassland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Common Merganser 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

Eurasian Wigeon

Mareca penelope

4/14/2026Moraine Hills State Park1 observed

Long-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus scolopaceus

4/14/2026Sports Club Dr. Fluddles1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

4/14/2026Chain-o-Lakes State Park2 observed

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

4/14/2026Illinois Beach SP (South Unit)--general1 observed

Wood Thrush

Hylocichla mustelina

4/14/2026Illinois Beach SP (South Unit)--general1 observed

Marsh Wren

Cistothorus palustris

4/13/2026Hastings Lake Forest Preserve1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/5/2026

Ring-necked Duck

84/5/2026

Bufflehead

64/5/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

14/5/2026

Common Loon

14/5/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  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 Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands) for birding?
The best months to visit Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands)?
Notable species at Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands) include Canada Goose, Mallard, Common Merganser, Bald Eagle, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports forest, grassland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands)?
Birding at Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands)?
Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve (Wadsworth Wetlands) offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.