Forest birding habitat

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 214 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Mallard 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

Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

7/15/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)3 observed

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

7/12/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

27/4/2026

Hooded Merganser

17/4/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

27/4/2026

Broad-winged Hawk

17/4/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

17/4/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/4/2026

Northern Flicker

17/4/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/4/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

27/4/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/4/2026

Blue Jay

47/4/2026

American Crow

27/4/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

47/4/2026

Barn Swallow

17/4/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

27/4/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

37/4/2026

Northern House Wren

17/4/2026

Wood Thrush

17/4/2026

Cedar Waxwing

47/4/2026

Eastern Towhee

27/4/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  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 Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Hooded Merganser. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve?
Birding at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve?
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.