Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 231 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

3/6/2026Firma Rd.1 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

3/5/2026Diamond-Hurricane Island State Fish and Waterfowl Management Area25 observed

Bullock's Oriole

Icterus bullockii

3/5/2026Fulton Compound1 observed

Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica

3/4/2026Marais Temps Clair CA1 observed

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

3/3/2026Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park2 observed

White-winged Scoter

Melanitta deglandi

3/1/2026Foley River Access1 observed

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

2/21/202640 Lost Dutchman Dr.2 observed

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 Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake?
Notable species at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake?
Birding at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake?
Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge - Swan Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.