Almond Marsh Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
WetlandForest
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Almond Marsh Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Northern Shoveler 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

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

3/5/2026Chain-o-Lakes State Park1 observed

Glaucous-winged Gull

Larus glaucescens

3/4/2026Prairie Springs Park/Lake Andrea1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

3/4/2026Illinois Beach SP--North Unit/Camp Logan1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/3/2026Fourth Lake--Millennium Trail Overlook1 observed

Common Gull

Larus canus

3/1/2026Pedersen Marina1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

33/4/2026

Trumpeter Swan

23/4/2026

Northern Shoveler

23/4/2026

Mallard

103/4/2026

Green-winged Teal

23/4/2026

Ring-necked Duck

43/4/2026

Bufflehead

53/4/2026

Common Goldeneye

23/4/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

13/4/2026

American Crow

43/4/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

33/4/2026

Hooded Merganser

22/27/2026

Bald Eagle

12/27/2026

European Starling

252/27/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/25/2026

Killdeer

22/25/2026

American Herring Gull

12/25/2026

Mourning Dove

12/24/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/24/2026

American Robin

32/24/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

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