Oakhurst Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Oakhurst Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Common Merganser 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

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

3/5/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/5/2026US-IL-Bolingbrook-60440 - 41.7277x-88.07391 observed

American Pipit

Anthus rubescens

3/1/2026Kline Creek Farm3 observed

Northern Mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

3/1/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

2/28/2026Ferson Creek Fen Nature Preserve12 observed

Great Egret

Ardea alba

2/26/2026Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve2 observed

Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon)

Junco hyemalis

2/24/2026Home - Westmont, IL1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

2/21/2026Sable Ridge Ponds4 observed

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

2/21/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

23/2/2026

Mallard

43/2/2026

Common Merganser

23/2/2026

American Robin

23/2/2026

House Sparrow

53/2/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

33/2/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/2/2026

Gadwall

52/26/2026

Common Goldeneye

32/26/2026

Mourning Dove

22/26/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/26/2026

American Tree Sparrow

22/26/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

62/26/2026

Song Sparrow

22/26/2026

Common Grackle

22/26/2026

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 Oakhurst Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Oakhurst Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Oakhurst Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Oakhurst Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Mallard, Common Merganser, American Robin, House Sparrow. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Oakhurst Forest Preserve?
Birding at Oakhurst Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Oakhurst Forest Preserve?
Oakhurst Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.