Silver Creek Preserve

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Silver Creek Preserve is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Barred Owl 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

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

3/6/2026Kilmar Woods1 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

3/1/2026Kaskaskia River SFWA--Baldwin Lake (Randolph Co.)1 observed

Red-throated Loon

Gavia stellata

2/28/2026Kaskaskia River SFWA--Baldwin Lake (Randolph Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

23/1/2026

Mallard

23/1/2026

Barred Owl

13/1/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/1/2026

Northern Flicker

13/1/2026

American Crow

43/1/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

33/1/2026

American Robin

53/1/2026

Song Sparrow

13/1/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

20003/1/2026

Killdeer

42/28/2026

Great Blue Heron

12/28/2026

Turkey Vulture

22/28/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

12/28/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/28/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

12/28/2026

Eastern Phoebe

32/28/2026

Blue Jay

22/28/2026

Tufted Titmouse

22/28/2026

Eastern Bluebird

22/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  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 Silver Creek Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Silver Creek Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Silver Creek Preserve?
Notable species at Silver Creek Preserve include Canada Goose, Mallard, Barred Owl, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Northern Flicker. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Silver Creek Preserve?
Birding at Silver Creek Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Silver Creek Preserve?
Silver Creek Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.