Grassland birding habitat

Spunky Bottoms

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Spunky Bottoms is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 241 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Rock Pigeon

6/1/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

6/1/2026

Mourning Dove

45/31/2026

Killdeer

15/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Northern House Wren

15/31/2026

Carolina Wren

15/31/2026

Gray Catbird

15/31/2026

American Robin

55/31/2026

House Sparrow

25/31/2026

Baltimore Oriole

15/31/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

55/31/2026

Indigo Bunting

15/31/2026

Wild Turkey

15/23/2026

Eastern Kingbird

45/23/2026

Grasshopper Sparrow

15/23/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

15/23/2026

Dickcissel

15/23/2026

Northern Bobwhite

25/23/2026

Blue Jay

15/23/2026

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 Spunky Bottoms for birding?
The best months to visit Spunky Bottoms for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Spunky Bottoms?
Notable species at Spunky Bottoms include Eastern Meadowlark, Dickcissel, Grasshopper Sparrow, Northern Harrier, Bobolink. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Spunky Bottoms?
Birding at Spunky Bottoms is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Spunky Bottoms?
Spunky Bottoms offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.