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

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

6/2/2026Brown Schoolhouse2 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

6/1/2026Southeast Missouri State University--River Campus1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

15/30/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

45/30/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

15/30/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

25/30/2026

Eastern Kingbird

15/30/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

35/30/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/30/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

35/30/2026

Blue Jay

35/30/2026

Tufted Titmouse

35/30/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

45/30/2026

Carolina Wren

35/30/2026

Brown Thrasher

25/30/2026

Eastern Bluebird

15/30/2026

Wood Thrush

35/30/2026

American Robin

15/30/2026

House Finch

65/30/2026

American Goldfinch

25/30/2026

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.