Grassland birding habitat

Union County Conservation Area

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Union County Conservation Area is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 220 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Gadwall, Mallard, and Bufflehead 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

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

7/14/2026Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

7/5/2026Brown Schoolhouse1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Black Vulture

17/16/2026

Barn Swallow

17/15/2026

Eastern Meadowlark

17/15/2026

Canada Goose

257/12/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/12/2026

American Kestrel

27/12/2026

Purple Martin

47/12/2026

European Starling

127/12/2026

Chimney Swift

27/12/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

137/12/2026

Mississippi Kite

47/12/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

27/12/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

57/12/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/12/2026

White-eyed Vireo

17/12/2026

Blue Jay

27/12/2026

Fish Crow

17/12/2026

Tufted Titmouse

27/12/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

87/12/2026

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 Union County Conservation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Union County Conservation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Union County Conservation Area?
Notable species at Union County Conservation Area include Gadwall, Mallard, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Turkey Vulture. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Union County Conservation Area?
Birding at Union County Conservation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Union County Conservation Area?
Union County Conservation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.