Rend Lake - South

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rend Lake - South is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 212 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Gadwall, Northern Pintail, and Lesser Scaup 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

Purple Martin

Progne subis

3/5/2026533 North 23rd Street, Herrin, Illinois, US (37.808, -89.037)

Fish Crow

Corvus ossifragus

2/28/2026401 N 27th St, Mount Vernon US-IL (38.3197,-88.9254)1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

2/26/202611535-12337 East Bonnie Road, Bonnie, Illinois, US (38.199, -88.924)

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

2/23/2026501 Roosevelt Street, Elkville, Illinois, US (37.934, -89.234)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Gadwall

42/27/2026

Northern Pintail

12/27/2026

Lesser Scaup

702/27/2026

Bufflehead

142/27/2026

Common Goldeneye

152/27/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

22/27/2026

Ruddy Duck

2502/27/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

12/27/2026

Turkey Vulture

62/27/2026

American Crow

32/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Rend Lake - South for birding?
The best months to visit Rend Lake - South for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rend Lake - South?
Notable species at Rend Lake - South include Gadwall, Northern Pintail, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rend Lake - South?
Birding at Rend Lake - South is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rend Lake - South?
Rend Lake - South offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.