Woodford SFWA

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Woodford SFWA is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 232 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Sandhill Crane, 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

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

2/21/202615215 North Ivy Lake Road, Chillicothe, Illinois, US (40.873, -89.584)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Shoveler

103/6/2026

Mallard

43/6/2026

Northern Pintail

23/6/2026

Ring-necked Duck

153/6/2026

Lesser Scaup

103/6/2026

Ruddy Duck

43/6/2026

Killdeer

43/6/2026

Ring-billed Gull

63/6/2026

Great Blue Heron

13/6/2026

Turkey Vulture

23/6/2026

Bald Eagle

13/6/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/6/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

13/6/2026

European Starling

603/6/2026

Eastern Bluebird

13/6/2026

American Robin

103/6/2026

House Finch

23/6/2026

American Tree Sparrow

53/6/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

13/6/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

33/6/2026

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