Cache River State Natural Area

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cache River State Natural Area is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

3/6/2026Cache Chapel Rd, Ullin US-IL 37.28563, -89.118277 observed

Lesser Yellowlegs

Tringa flavipes

3/6/2026Cache Chapel Rd, Ullin US-IL 37.28563, -89.118272 observed

Greater Yellowlegs

Tringa melanoleuca

3/6/2026Cache Chapel Rd, Ullin US-IL 37.28563, -89.118277 observed

Great Egret

Ardea alba

3/5/2026Shawnee Power Plant1 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

2/28/2026Cache River State Natural Area--Cache River Wetlands Center2 observed

Fish Crow

Corvus ossifragus

2/28/2026Cache River State Natural Area--Cache River Wetlands Center1 observed

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

2/27/2026Mermet Lake1 observed

Orange-crowned Warbler

Leiothlypis celata

2/21/2026Bellrose Observation Deck Area1 observed

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 Cache River State Natural Area for birding?
The best months to visit Cache River State Natural Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cache River State Natural Area?
Notable species at Cache River State Natural Area include Belted Kingfisher, Yellow Warbler, Song Sparrow, Great Blue Heron, Cedar Waxwing. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cache River State Natural Area?
Birding at Cache River State Natural Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cache River State Natural Area?
Cache River State Natural Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.