Orland Grassland

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Grassland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Orland Grassland is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 240 species recorded on eBird. This grassland habitat attracts Turkey Vulture, Red-tailed Hawk, and American Kestrel 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

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

3/5/2026Helmick Nature Preserve / Butterfield Creek Wetlands15 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

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

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

3/3/2026Lake Calumet area--Lake Calumet/Harborside Golf Course5 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

2/20/2026Black Walnut Creek Preserve2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Turkey Vulture

12/27/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/24/2026

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 Orland Grassland for birding?
The best months to visit Orland Grassland for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Orland Grassland?
Notable species at Orland Grassland include Turkey Vulture, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, European Starling, American Robin. The area supports grassland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Orland Grassland?
Birding at Orland Grassland is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Orland Grassland?
Orland Grassland offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.