Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 213 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, and Mute Swan 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

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/1/2026Mendenhall Park1 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

2/27/2026Spring Lake SFWA10 observed

Northern Shrike

Lanius borealis

2/25/2026Banner Marsh FWA--Bell's Landing (Fulton Co.)1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose (Tule)

Anser albifrons

2/21/2026Banner Marsh FWA-- East Access (Peoria Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Greater White-fronted Goose

543/2/2026

Canada Goose

253/2/2026

Mute Swan

483/2/2026

Northern Shoveler

33/2/2026

Gadwall

93/2/2026

Mallard

83/2/2026

Northern Pintail

233/2/2026

Bufflehead

73/2/2026

Hooded Merganser

23/2/2026

Common Merganser

13/2/2026

Killdeer

33/2/2026

Wilson's Snipe

13/2/2026

Ring-billed Gull

383/2/2026

American Herring Gull

13/2/2026

Turkey Vulture

23/2/2026

Northern Harrier

13/2/2026

Bald Eagle

13/2/2026

Northern Flicker

13/2/2026

American Crow

13/2/2026

American Tree Sparrow

73/2/2026

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 Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing for birding?
The best months to visit Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing?
Notable species at Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing include Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing?
Birding at Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing?
Banner Marsh FWA - Bell's Landing offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.