Bartel Grassland

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Grassland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Bartel Grassland is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 210 species recorded on eBird. This grassland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Killdeer 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

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

3/5/2026Helmick Nature Preserve / Butterfield Creek Wetlands15 observed

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

3/3/2026BP Warm Water Outlet1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/3/2026McGinnis Slough Forest Preserve2 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

3/3/2026Lake Calumet area--Lake Calumet/Harborside Golf Course5 observed

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

2/25/2026Eggers Grove Forest Preserve (Chicago)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

33/3/2026

Mallard

43/3/2026

Killdeer

13/3/2026

American Tree Sparrow

13/3/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

493/3/2026

Mourning Dove

12/27/2026

European Starling

72/27/2026

American Robin

22/27/2026

Common Grackle

12/27/2026

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 Bartel Grassland for birding?
The best months to visit Bartel Grassland for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Bartel Grassland?
Notable species at Bartel Grassland include Canada Goose, Mallard, Killdeer, American Tree Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird. The area supports grassland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bartel Grassland?
Birding at Bartel Grassland is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Bartel Grassland?
Bartel Grassland offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.