Grassland birding habitat

Weldon Springs State Park

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Weldon Springs State Park is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, and Mourning Dove 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

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

7/10/2026Home1 observed

Northern Parula

Setophaga americana

7/9/2026Allerton Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

37/13/2026

Mourning Dove

37/13/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/13/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

17/13/2026

Turkey Vulture

27/13/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/13/2026

Northern Flicker

17/13/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

27/13/2026

Eastern Phoebe

47/13/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/13/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/13/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

27/13/2026

American Crow

27/13/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

17/13/2026

Tufted Titmouse

27/13/2026

Purple Martin

27/13/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/13/2026

Northern House Wren

27/13/2026

Carolina Wren

17/13/2026

Gray Catbird

27/13/2026

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 Weldon Springs State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Weldon Springs State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Weldon Springs State Park?
Notable species at Weldon Springs State Park include Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, Mourning Dove, Ring-billed Gull, Barred Owl. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Weldon Springs State Park?
Birding at Weldon Springs State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Weldon Springs State Park?
Weldon Springs State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.