River/Riparian birding habitat

Silver Creek Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Silver Creek Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Barred Owl 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

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

5/31/2026O'Fallon1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

5/28/202610981 Conservation Road, Baldwin, Illinois, US (38.23, -89.878)13 observed

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta canadensis

5/26/2026215 Luca James Point, O'Fallon, Illinois, US (38.634, -89.919)1 observed

Connecticut Warbler

Oporornis agilis

5/23/2026smaller field at cahokia1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

25/31/2026

Mourning Dove

25/31/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

25/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/31/2026

Barred Owl

15/31/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

15/31/2026

White-eyed Vireo

15/31/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

25/31/2026

Blue Jay

15/31/2026

American Crow

25/31/2026

Fish Crow

15/31/2026

Tufted Titmouse

25/31/2026

Barn Swallow

25/31/2026

Carolina Wren

25/31/2026

Gray Catbird

25/31/2026

Eastern Bluebird

25/31/2026

Wood Thrush

25/31/2026

American Robin

45/31/2026

Field Sparrow

45/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  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 Silver Creek Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Silver Creek Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Silver Creek Preserve?
Notable species at Silver Creek Preserve include Canada Goose, Mallard, Barred Owl, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Northern Flicker. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Silver Creek Preserve?
Birding at Silver Creek Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Silver Creek Preserve?
Silver Creek Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.