Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mute Swan, and Sandhill Crane 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

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

3/2/2026Snipe Locale2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

83/3/2026

Mute Swan

33/3/2026

Sandhill Crane

133/3/2026

Cackling Goose

83/1/2026

Belted Kingfisher

13/1/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

23/1/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/1/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

13/1/2026

American Crow

63/1/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

83/1/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

33/1/2026

American Tree Sparrow

63/1/2026

Northern Cardinal

23/1/2026

Killdeer

22/27/2026

Barred Owl

12/27/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

22/27/2026

Northern Flicker

12/27/2026

European Starling

82/27/2026

Eastern Bluebird

12/27/2026

American Robin

22/27/2026

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 Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve?
Notable species at Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve include Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Sandhill Crane, Cackling Goose, Belted Kingfisher. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve?
Birding at Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve?
Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.