Spring Lake Bottoms

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Spring Lake Bottoms is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mute Swan, and Wood Duck 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

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/1/2026Mendenhall Park1 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

2/27/2026Spring Lake SFWA10 observed

Northern Shrike

Lanius borealis

2/25/2026Banner Marsh FWA--Bell's Landing (Fulton Co.)1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose (Tule)

Anser albifrons

2/21/2026Banner Marsh FWA-- East Access (Peoria Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

183/1/2026

Mute Swan

63/1/2026

Wood Duck

23/1/2026

Gadwall

133/1/2026

Mallard

123/1/2026

Killdeer

23/1/2026

Ring-billed Gull

23/1/2026

Bald Eagle

13/1/2026

Blue Jay

23/1/2026

American Crow

13/1/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

23/1/2026

American Robin

43/1/2026

American Tree Sparrow

23/1/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

813/1/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/1/2026

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 Spring Lake Bottoms for birding?
The best months to visit Spring Lake Bottoms for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Spring Lake Bottoms?
Notable species at Spring Lake Bottoms include Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Wood Duck, Gadwall, Mallard. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Spring Lake Bottoms?
Birding at Spring Lake Bottoms is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Spring Lake Bottoms?
Spring Lake Bottoms offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.