Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois)

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois) is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 245 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Greater White-fronted Goose, Cackling 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

Double-crested Cormorant

Nannopterum auritum

3/4/2026Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area3 observed

Iceland Gull (Thayer's)

Larus glaucoides

3/3/2026South Sabula Lakes Park1 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

2/26/2026Princeton WMA6 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Greater White-fronted Goose

8053/4/2026

Cackling Goose

43/4/2026

Canada Goose

2603/4/2026

Mute Swan

13/4/2026

Trumpeter Swan

353/4/2026

Wood Duck

23/4/2026

Northern Shoveler

23/4/2026

Gadwall

173/4/2026

American Wigeon

23/4/2026

Mallard

803/4/2026

Northern Pintail

553/4/2026

Green-winged Teal

303/4/2026

Canvasback

9003/4/2026

Redhead

303/4/2026

Ring-necked Duck

503/4/2026

Greater Scaup

13/4/2026

Lesser Scaup

12003/4/2026

Bufflehead

53/4/2026

Common Goldeneye

2503/4/2026

Hooded Merganser

63/4/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois) for birding?
The best months to visit Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois)?
Notable species at Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois) include Greater White-fronted Goose, Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Trumpeter Swan. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois)?
Birding at Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois)?
Lock and Dam 13 (Illinois) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.