Ferguson Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Ferguson Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 204 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Ring-necked Pheasant 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

Iceland Gull (kumlieni)

Larus glaucoides

3/4/2026Rock Cut State Park1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

3/2/2026Snipe Locale2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

902/27/2026

Mallard

22/27/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

12/27/2026

Rock Pigeon

62/27/2026

Mourning Dove

22/27/2026

Sandhill Crane

42/27/2026

Bald Eagle

12/27/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

22/27/2026

Barred Owl

22/27/2026

Short-eared Owl

12/27/2026

Northern Shrike

12/27/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

12/27/2026

Eastern Bluebird

42/27/2026

American Robin

1652/27/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

22/27/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

672/27/2026

Northern Cardinal

22/27/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/25/2026

American Tree Sparrow

262/25/2026

Great Horned Owl

12/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  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 Ferguson Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Ferguson Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ferguson Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Ferguson Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Mallard, Ring-necked Pheasant, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ferguson Forest Preserve?
Birding at Ferguson Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ferguson Forest Preserve?
Ferguson Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.