Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 288 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Cackling 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

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

Snow Goose

950003/2/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

23103/2/2026

Cackling Goose

83/2/2026

Canada Goose

5503/2/2026

Mute Swan

443/2/2026

Trumpeter Swan

1943/2/2026

Tundra Swan

2413/2/2026

Wood Duck

23/2/2026

Northern Shoveler

4443/2/2026

Gadwall

21103/2/2026

American Wigeon

633/2/2026

Mallard

72403/2/2026

American Black Duck

83/2/2026

Northern Pintail

61203/2/2026

Green-winged Teal

9003/2/2026

Canvasback

7143/2/2026

Redhead

3403/2/2026

Ring-necked Duck

24453/2/2026

Greater Scaup

13/2/2026

Lesser Scaup

28303/2/2026

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 Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge include Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Mute Swan. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge?
Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.