Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge - Eagle Bluff

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge - Eagle Bluff is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 268 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Canada 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

250003/3/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

3703/3/2026

Canada Goose

653/3/2026

Mute Swan

83/3/2026

Trumpeter Swan

183/3/2026

Tundra Swan

33/3/2026

Northern Shoveler

43/3/2026

Gadwall

203/3/2026

American Wigeon

13/3/2026

Mallard

1203/3/2026

American Black Duck

33/3/2026

Northern Pintail

1703/3/2026

Green-winged Teal

1253/3/2026

Canvasback

2003/3/2026

Redhead

13/3/2026

Ring-necked Duck

903/3/2026

Lesser Scaup

15003/3/2026

Bufflehead

13/3/2026

Common Goldeneye

303/3/2026

Ruddy Duck

2203/3/2026

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