Fox Ridge State Park

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Mountain
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Fox Ridge State Park is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This mountain habitat attracts Mourning Dove, Killdeer, and Turkey Vulture 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

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/6/2026Hickory Ridge Nature Preserve1 observed

Mute Swan

Cygnus olor

3/6/2026Lake Charleston1 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

3/6/2026Lake Charleston1 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

3/6/2026Lake Charleston1 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

3/6/2026Hickory Ridge Nature Preserve10 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

3/3/20262329 U.S. 40, Casey, Illinois, US (39.285, -88.039)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Turkey Vulture

43/6/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

23/6/2026

Barred Owl

13/6/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

13/6/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/6/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

13/6/2026

Northern Flicker

13/6/2026

American Crow

33/6/2026

Carolina Chickadee

13/6/2026

Tufted Titmouse

13/6/2026

Mourning Dove

12/27/2026

Killdeer

32/27/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/27/2026

Blue Jay

52/27/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

52/27/2026

Red-breasted Nuthatch

12/27/2026

Carolina Wren

32/27/2026

Eastern Bluebird

22/27/2026

American Robin

32/27/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

62/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring layers as mountain weather changes rapidly at elevation.

  2. 2

    Check exposed ridges and thermals for soaring raptors and swifts.

  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 Fox Ridge State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Fox Ridge State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Fox Ridge State Park?
Notable species at Fox Ridge State Park include Mourning Dove, Killdeer, Turkey Vulture, Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker. The area supports mountain habitats.
How difficult is birding at Fox Ridge State Park?
Birding at Fox Ridge State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Fox Ridge State Park?
Fox Ridge State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.