Lake birding habitat

Spring Lake SFWA

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Spring Lake SFWA is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 251 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

American Avocet

Recurvirostra americana

6/3/2026Chautauqua NWR--Eagle Bluff2 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

6/2/2026Emiquon NWR--South Globe Unit1 observed

Greater Yellowlegs

Tringa melanoleuca

6/2/2026Emiquon NWR--South Globe Unit1 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

6/2/2026Emiquon NWR--South Globe Unit1 observed

Tricolored Heron

Egretta tricolor

6/2/2026Chautauqua NWR1 observed

American Golden-Plover

Pluvialis dominica

6/2/2026Emiquon NWR--South Globe Unit1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

6/2/2026Emiquon NWR--South Globe Unit1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/31/2026

Mute Swan

45/31/2026

Wood Duck

15/31/2026

Mourning Dove

35/31/2026

Chimney Swift

15/31/2026

Killdeer

35/31/2026

Green Heron

25/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/31/2026

Belted Kingfisher

15/31/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

35/31/2026

Willow Flycatcher

35/31/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

25/31/2026

Eastern Kingbird

55/31/2026

Bell's Vireo

15/31/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

125/31/2026

Blue Jay

15/31/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

15/31/2026

Tree Swallow

35/31/2026

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