Starved Rock State Park

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Starved Rock State Park is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 245 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Red-bellied Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, and American Robin 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

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/22/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

42/22/2026

American Robin

22/22/2026

Northern Cardinal

32/22/2026

Canada Goose

22/20/2026

Common Goldeneye

152/20/2026

Ring-billed Gull

42/20/2026

American Herring Gull

12/20/2026

Bald Eagle

42/20/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

12/20/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/20/2026

Downy Woodpecker

22/20/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

12/20/2026

American Crow

32/20/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

22/20/2026

Brown Creeper

12/20/2026

Eastern Bluebird

22/20/2026

American Goldfinch

12/20/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

82/20/2026

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 Starved Rock State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Starved Rock State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Starved Rock State Park?
Notable species at Starved Rock State Park include Red-bellied Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, American Robin, Northern Cardinal, Canada Goose. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Starved Rock State Park?
Birding at Starved Rock State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Starved Rock State Park?
Starved Rock State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.