Grassland birding habitat

Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Canada Goose 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

Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus

5/26/2026Cumberland Road Rest Area8 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

25/29/2026

Mallard

15/29/2026

Northern Bobwhite

45/29/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

15/29/2026

Mourning Dove

155/29/2026

Killdeer

35/29/2026

American Woodcock

15/29/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/29/2026

Turkey Vulture

35/29/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

15/29/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/29/2026

Northern Flicker

15/29/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

15/29/2026

Willow Flycatcher

65/29/2026

Eastern Phoebe

15/29/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

25/29/2026

Eastern Kingbird

45/29/2026

White-eyed Vireo

15/29/2026

Bell's Vireo

25/29/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/29/2026

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 Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois for birding?
The best months to visit Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois?
Notable species at Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois include Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Gadwall, Mallard. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois?
Birding at Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois?
Universal/Peabody Strip Mine Illinois offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.