Union County Conservation Area

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Union County Conservation Area is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 220 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Gadwall, Mallard, and Bufflehead 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

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

3/1/2026Lake Lyerla Conservation Area--Levee1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

2/27/2026Lake Lyerla Conservation Area--Levee1 observed

Orange-crowned Warbler

Leiothlypis celata

2/21/2026Bellrose Observation Deck Area1 observed

Greater Yellowlegs

Tringa melanoleuca

2/21/2026Bellrose Observation Deck Area2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Gadwall

32/27/2026

Mallard

62/27/2026

Bufflehead

102/27/2026

Common Goldeneye

12/27/2026

Turkey Vulture

22/27/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/27/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

12/27/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12/27/2026

Downy Woodpecker

12/27/2026

Blue Jay

12/27/2026

American Crow

22/27/2026

American Robin

22/27/2026

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 Union County Conservation Area for birding?
The best months to visit Union County Conservation Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Union County Conservation Area?
Notable species at Union County Conservation Area include Gadwall, Mallard, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Turkey Vulture. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Union County Conservation Area?
Birding at Union County Conservation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Union County Conservation Area?
Union County Conservation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.