Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
ForestGrassland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 234 species recorded on eBird. This forest and grassland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Ring-billed Gull, and Red-tailed Hawk 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

Glaucous-winged Gull

Larus glaucescens

3/4/2026Prairie Springs Park/Lake Andrea1 observed

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

3/4/2026Busse Woods, Rolling Meadows US-IL 42.04751, -88.025633 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

3/4/2026Illinois Beach SP--North Unit/Camp Logan1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/3/2026Fourth Lake--Millennium Trail Overlook1 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

3/2/2026Busse Woods--south pool5 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

73/5/2026

Mallard

283/5/2026

Green-winged Teal

23/5/2026

Sandhill Crane

23/5/2026

Killdeer

13/5/2026

Ring-billed Gull

13/5/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/5/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/5/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

13/5/2026

Blue Jay

33/5/2026

American Robin

1503/5/2026

American Tree Sparrow

123/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

243/5/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/22/2026

American Crow

12/22/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

12/22/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

12/22/2026

American Goldfinch

12/22/2026

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 Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Ring-billed Gull, Red-tailed Hawk, Downy Woodpecker, Blue Jay. The area supports forest, grassland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve?
Birding at Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve?
Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.