Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
ForestGrassland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 252 species recorded on eBird. This forest and grassland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and American Black Duck 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

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

3/6/2026Center St, Grayslake US-IL 42.34477, -88.009071 observed

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

3/5/2026Chain-o-Lakes State Park1 observed

Glaucous-winged Gull

Larus glaucescens

3/4/2026Prairie Springs Park/Lake Andrea1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

3/4/2026Illinois Beach SP--North Unit/Camp Logan1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/3/2026Fourth Lake--Millennium Trail Overlook1 observed

Common Gull

Larus canus

3/1/2026Pedersen Marina1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

283/4/2026

Mallard

323/4/2026

American Black Duck

23/4/2026

Hooded Merganser

43/4/2026

Common Merganser

133/4/2026

Mourning Dove

13/4/2026

Sandhill Crane

63/4/2026

Ring-billed Gull

13/4/2026

American Crow

13/4/2026

European Starling

433/4/2026

American Robin

1103/4/2026

House Finch

13/4/2026

American Tree Sparrow

73/4/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

23/4/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

333/4/2026

Common Grackle

63/4/2026

Northern Cardinal

13/4/2026

Northern Harrier

23/1/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

23/1/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

23/1/2026

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