Spring Lake SFWA

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Spring Lake SFWA is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 251 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mute Swan, and Wood 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

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/1/2026Mendenhall Park1 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

2/27/2026Spring Lake SFWA10 observed

Northern Shrike

Lanius borealis

2/25/2026Banner Marsh FWA--Bell's Landing (Fulton Co.)1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose (Tule)

Anser albifrons

2/21/2026Banner Marsh FWA-- East Access (Peoria Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mute Swan

253/5/2026

Ring-necked Duck

83/5/2026

Lesser Scaup

403/5/2026

Bufflehead

63/5/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

13/5/2026

Canada Goose

83/1/2026

Wood Duck

33/1/2026

Mallard

103/1/2026

Common Goldeneye

143/1/2026

Ring-billed Gull

113/1/2026

Bald Eagle

13/1/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

53/1/2026

Downy Woodpecker

23/1/2026

Northern Flicker

13/1/2026

American Kestrel

13/1/2026

Blue Jay

13/1/2026

American Crow

13/1/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

23/1/2026

Tufted Titmouse

13/1/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

13/1/2026

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Spring Lake SFWA for birding?
The best months to visit Spring Lake SFWA for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Spring Lake SFWA?
Notable species at Spring Lake SFWA include Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Wood Duck, Mallard, Lesser Scaup. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Spring Lake SFWA?
Birding at Spring Lake SFWA is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Spring Lake SFWA?
Spring Lake SFWA offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.