Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 233 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Canada Goose 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

62/28/2026

Greater White-fronted Goose

62/28/2026

Canada Goose

82/28/2026

Northern Shoveler

202/28/2026

Gadwall

182/28/2026

American Wigeon

502/28/2026

Mallard

1002/28/2026

Northern Pintail

242/28/2026

Canvasback

242/28/2026

Redhead

302/28/2026

Ring-necked Duck

2502/28/2026

Bufflehead

72/28/2026

Common Goldeneye

102/28/2026

Mourning Dove

12/28/2026

American Coot

12/28/2026

Killdeer

22/28/2026

Turkey Vulture

12/28/2026

Bald Eagle

12/28/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

12/28/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

22/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  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 Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area for birding?
The best months to visit Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area?
Notable species at Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area include Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area?
Birding at Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area?
Shelbyville SFWA (Kaskaskia Unit) - Fish Hook Waterfowl Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.