Grassland birding habitat

Silver Springs SFWA

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Silver Springs SFWA is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland 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

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

Stilt Sandpiper

Calidris himantopus

7/10/2026Millhurst Rd Fluddle3 observed

Clay-colored Sparrow

Spizella pallida

7/7/2026Subat Forest Preserve1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

17/16/2026

Killdeer

17/16/2026

Barred Owl

17/16/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

27/16/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/16/2026

Northern Flicker

37/16/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

27/16/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/16/2026

White-eyed Vireo

17/16/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/16/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/16/2026

Blue Jay

67/16/2026

American Crow

27/16/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

47/16/2026

Tufted Titmouse

37/16/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

17/16/2026

Barn Swallow

17/16/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

27/16/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

37/16/2026

Northern House Wren

47/16/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Springs SFWA for birding?
The best months to visit Silver Springs SFWA for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Silver Springs SFWA?
Notable species at Silver Springs SFWA include Canada Goose, Mallard, Common Merganser, Mourning Dove, Ring-billed Gull. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Silver Springs SFWA?
Birding at Silver Springs SFWA is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Silver Springs SFWA?
Silver Springs SFWA offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.