The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Rend Lake - Ward Branch

Illinois · Midwest

ModerateView on eBird
Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rend Lake - Ward Branch is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 220 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Common LoonBald EagleDouble-crested CormorantRing-billed GullBufflehead

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

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)

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.

Amenities

Parking
Trails

More in Illinois

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

Chicago's top birding spot where the Magic Hedge traps migrating songbirds.

Jackson Park / Wooded Island

Chicago South Side migrant trap on a historic Wooded Island with 250+ species and outstanding warbler fallouts.

Illinois Beach State Park

Illinois' last natural Lake Michigan shore with 300+ species, shorebird migration, and grassland birds.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Where to See Bald Eagles in North America: A Seasonal Viewing Guide

11 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Rend Lake - Ward Branch for birding?▼
The best months to visit Rend Lake - Ward Branch for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rend Lake - Ward Branch?▼
Notable species at Rend Lake - Ward Branch include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rend Lake - Ward Branch?▼
Birding at Rend Lake - Ward Branch is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rend Lake - Ward Branch?▼
Rend Lake - Ward Branch offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.