Forest birding habitat

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
ForestRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This forest and river/riparian habitat attracts Common Goldeneye, Bald Eagle, and Belted Kingfisher among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

7/19/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

Northern Harrier

Circus hudsonius

7/19/2026Bartel Grassland1 observed

Gadwall

Mareca strepera

7/19/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

Baird's Sandpiper

Calidris bairdii

7/18/2026Essington Rd, Bolingbrook US-IL 41.66732, -88.165331 observed

Ring-necked Pheasant

Phasianus colchicus

7/14/2026Helmick Nature Preserve/Butterfield Creek Wetlands1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Chimney Swift

17/21/2026

Northern Flicker

17/21/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/21/2026

Blue Jay

27/21/2026

American Robin

47/21/2026

American Goldfinch

37/21/2026

Song Sparrow

17/21/2026

Baltimore Oriole

17/21/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/21/2026

Yellow-throated Warbler

17/21/2026

Indigo Bunting

37/21/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/8/2026

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 - Sawmill Creek Area for birding?
The best months to visit Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area?
Notable species at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area include Common Goldeneye, Bald Eagle, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports forest, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area?
Birding at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area?
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve - Sawmill Creek Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.