Lake Springfield

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Lake Springfield is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 235 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall 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

Red-tailed Hawk (calurus/abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

3/5/2026Centennial Park, Springfield1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

23/4/2026

Northern Shoveler

163/4/2026

Gadwall

153/4/2026

Mallard

173/4/2026

Green-winged Teal

53/4/2026

Canvasback

123/4/2026

Redhead

33/4/2026

Ring-necked Duck

353/4/2026

Greater Scaup

53/4/2026

Lesser Scaup

5503/4/2026

Common Goldeneye

13/4/2026

Hooded Merganser

53/4/2026

Ruddy Duck

33/4/2026

Rock Pigeon

33/4/2026

Mourning Dove

23/4/2026

Killdeer

33/4/2026

Ring-billed Gull

1303/4/2026

American Herring Gull

153/4/2026

Lesser Black-backed Gull

13/4/2026

Belted Kingfisher

13/4/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Lake Springfield for birding?
The best months to visit Lake Springfield for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Lake Springfield?
Notable species at Lake Springfield include Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, Green-winged Teal. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lake Springfield?
Birding at Lake Springfield is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lake Springfield?
Lake Springfield offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.