Fermilab
Illinois · Midwest
Moderate
April-May, September-October
Free (government ID required for site access)
Open daily, 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM (hours vary seasonally)
About This Location
Fermilab is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 292 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and American Wigeon 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
European Goldfinch
Carduelis carduelis
Eastern Phoebe
Sayornis phoebe
Blue-winged Teal
Spatula discors
Horned Grebe
Podiceps auritus
American White Pelican
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos
American Pipit
Anthus rubescens
Northern Mockingbird
Mimus polyglottos
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Canada Goose
Wood Duck
Northern Shoveler
Gadwall
American Wigeon
Mallard
American Black Duck
Northern Pintail
Green-winged Teal
Canvasback
Ring-necked Duck
Lesser Scaup
Hooded Merganser
Common Merganser
Mourning Dove
American Coot
Sandhill Crane
Killdeer
Ring-billed Gull
American Herring Gull
Birding Tips
- 1
Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.
- 2
Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.
- 3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.
- 4
Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.
- 5
Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
- Morton Arboretum
- Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
- Greene Valley Forest Preserve
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