Sand Ridge State Forest
Illinois · Midwest
Challenging
April-May, September-October
About This Location
Sand Ridge State Forest is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This forest and mountain habitat attracts Snow Goose, Ross's Goose, and Red-bellied Woodpecker among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.
Location
Loading map...
Live Bird Data
Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Notable Sightings
Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days
Tree Swallow
Tachycineta bicolor
Northern Shrike
Lanius borealis
Greater White-fronted Goose (Tule)
Anser albifrons
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Snow Goose
Ross's Goose
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Blue Jay
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
Northern Cardinal
Greater White-fronted Goose
Red-tailed Hawk
Pileated Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
White-breasted Nuthatch
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Dark-eyed Junco
Downy Woodpecker
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Birding Tips
- 1
Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.
- 2
Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.
- 3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.
Amenities
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.