Stephen A. Forbes State Park

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Stephen A. Forbes State Park is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Wood Duck, Mallard, and Red-headed Woodpecker 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

Western Meadowlark

Sturnella neglecta

2/21/2026Prairie Ridge State Natural Area (Marion Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

62/21/2026

Mallard

302/21/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

12/21/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/21/2026

American Crow

12/21/2026

Carolina Chickadee

12/21/2026

Tufted Titmouse

42/21/2026

Eastern Bluebird

22/21/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

162/21/2026

Northern Cardinal

32/21/2026

Canada Goose

12/21/2026

Canvasback

22/21/2026

Lesser Scaup

32/21/2026

Ring-billed Gull

802/21/2026

Green-winged Teal

12/21/2026

Ring-necked Duck

12/21/2026

Hooded Merganser

22/21/2026

Ruddy Duck

32/21/2026

Black Vulture

22/21/2026

Turkey Vulture

22/21/2026

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 Stephen A. Forbes State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Stephen A. Forbes State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Stephen A. Forbes State Park?
Notable species at Stephen A. Forbes State Park include Wood Duck, Mallard, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, American Crow. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Stephen A. Forbes State Park?
Birding at Stephen A. Forbes State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Stephen A. Forbes State Park?
Stephen A. Forbes State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.