Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 264 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Snow Goose 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

Forster's Tern

Sterna forsteri

3/6/2026Carlyle Dam Road, Carlyle, Illinois, US (38.619, -89.353)1 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

3/6/2026Carlyle Lake--West Access Marina and Beach2 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

3/4/2026Carlyle Lake--James Hawn Access2 observed

Lesser Yellowlegs

Tringa flavipes

3/4/2026South Shore Park1 observed

Greater Yellowlegs

Tringa melanoleuca

3/4/2026South Shore Park1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/4/2026South Shore Park4 observed

Fish Crow

Corvus ossifragus

2/28/2026Carlyle Lake--Spillway2 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

2/23/2026Carlyle Lake--West Access Marina and Beach1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access for birding?
The best months to visit Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access?
Notable species at Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access?
Birding at Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access?
Carlyle Lake - Whitetail Access offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.