Wetland birding habitat

Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 204 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Northern Shoveler 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

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

6/2/2026Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary1 observed

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

6/2/2026Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary1 observed

Least Tern

Sternula antillarum

6/2/2026Clifton Terrace Park Parking Lot8 observed

Neotropic Cormorant

Nannopterum brasilianum

6/2/2026Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary2 observed

Green-winged Teal

Anas crecca

6/1/2026Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary2 observed

Laughing Gull

Leucophaeus atricilla

6/1/2026Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

25/28/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/28/2026

Great Egret

15/28/2026

Great Blue Heron

25/28/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

25/28/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

15/28/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/28/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/28/2026

Tufted Titmouse

15/28/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

45/28/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

15/28/2026

Cedar Waxwing

25/28/2026

Orchard Oriole

15/28/2026

Baltimore Oriole

15/28/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

45/28/2026

Common Grackle

65/28/2026

Prothonotary Warbler

25/28/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

15/28/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/28/2026

Indigo Bunting

15/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge?
Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.