Black Walnut Creek Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Black Walnut Creek Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, 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

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

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

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/3/2026McGinnis Slough Forest Preserve2 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

2/28/2026Wolf Lake/William Powers SRA18 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Greater White-fronted Goose

7003/1/2026

Canada Goose

853/1/2026

Northern Shoveler

123/1/2026

Mallard

253/1/2026

Green-winged Teal

23/1/2026

Hooded Merganser

13/1/2026

Rock Pigeon

23/1/2026

Ring-billed Gull

13/1/2026

Peregrine Falcon

13/1/2026

Blue Jay

13/1/2026

American Crow

23/1/2026

House Finch

143/1/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

83/1/2026

American Wigeon

13/1/2026

American Black Duck

23/1/2026

Northern Pintail

13/1/2026

Greater Scaup

33/1/2026

Sandhill Crane

313/1/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

13/1/2026

American Robin

13/1/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

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